Kubo and the Two Strings 2 (2025) – Detailed Review
🎶🪄🐉

Overview

Kubo and the Two Strings 2 (2025) is the long-awaited sequel to the critically acclaimed 2016 stop-motion animated film Kubo and the Two Strings. Directed by Travis Knight and produced by Laika Studios, the original film enchanted audiences with its breathtaking animation, heartfelt storytelling, and unique blend of Japanese folklore and fantasy. In this sequel, Kubo embarks on a new adventure, delving deeper into his magical heritage while facing new challenges and enemies that test his courage and wisdom.

The sequel is set a few years after the events of the first film, following Kubo’s journey to protect his family legacy and defend his magical powers against even darker forces. Fans of the first film will be pleased to see the return of beloved characters like Kubo, Monkey, and Beetle, while new characters and ancient myths are introduced, expanding the world of Kubo into even grander realms.

Storyline

The sequel begins with Kubo (voiced by Art Parkinson) now a young man, having successfully defeated his grandfather, the Moon King, and restored peace to his village. However, his life is far from ordinary. Kubo has inherited great magical powers, which allow him to summon powerful illusions and control the elements through his music. His connection to the ancient world is still very much alive, but Kubo remains haunted by his family’s past.

When an ancient, powerful force—long forgotten by the world—awakens, Kubo must once again embark on a perilous journey to protect the ones he loves and safeguard the magical artifacts that have defined his legacy. Alongside his companions, Monkey (Charlize Theron) and Beetle (Matthew McConaughey), Kubo faces new mythical creatures and dark forces that threaten to disrupt the balance of his world.

As Kubo learns more about his origins, he discovers secrets about his family’s past—secrets that not only reveal the true nature of his powers but also force him to confront his greatest fears. In the midst of battle and danger, Kubo will have to rely on his ingenuity, compassion, and the magical power of his music to defeat the forces of darkness.

The sequel introduces a new villain, a vengeful spirit named Kurozai (voiced by Tatsuya Nakadai), who seeks to take control of Kubo’s powers and harness the ancient magic for his own purposes. Kurozai is a formidable antagonist who represents the dark side of Kubo’s heritage, challenging Kubo to fully embrace his destiny as the protector of the magical realm.

New Characters and Performances

• Kubo (voiced by Art Parkinson) – Kubo returns as the heroic protagonist, now older and more mature. His character arc in this sequel explores deeper themes of legacy, self-discovery, and the heavy burden of magical power. Parkinson’s voice acting continues to capture Kubo’s earnestness, while conveying his growth into a wise and brave young man.
• Monkey (voiced by Charlize Theron) – Kubo’s loyal protector, Monkey returns as his guiding figure, continuing to offer both wisdom and strength. Theron’s performance is as empowering and nurturing as ever, and in this sequel, we see more of Monkey’s own past and the role she plays in the greater conflict. Her relationship with Kubo deepens, offering emotional moments of growth and mentorship.
• Beetle (voiced by Matthew McConaughey) – Beetle is as humorous and quirky as ever, but in this sequel, his character undergoes significant growth as he begins to unlock secrets about his past and his connection to the magical world. McConaughey’s performance continues to blend lightheartedness with genuine sincerity, making Beetle a lovable and courageous companion.
• Kurozai (voiced by Tatsuya Nakadai) – The new antagonist, Kurozai, is a dark sorcerer with an ancient connection to Kubo’s family. He seeks to control the very source of Kubo’s powers, and Nakadai brings a sense of menace and gravitas to the role, making Kurozai a truly terrifying presence. His motivation stems from a tragic past, offering a deep and compelling foil to Kubo’s journey.
• The Ancestors (various voices) – A series of otherworldly ancestors and spirits help guide Kubo through his journey, each representing different aspects of his heritage and magical abilities. These characters add layers to the lore, helping Kubo understand the full extent of his powers and what is at stake in the battle to preserve the balance between worlds.

Animation and Visuals

Laika Studios has consistently pushed the boundaries of stop-motion animation, and Kubo and the Two Strings 2 continues this tradition with stunning visuals. The film’s attention to detail, breathtaking landscapes, and fluid motion make every frame an artwork. From the fiery dragons soaring through the skies to the intricately designed mythical creatures, the animation is as magical and mesmerizing as the story itself.

The magical elements of the film are brought to life with even more dynamic action sequences and imaginative designs. Kubo’s music, in particular, becomes a visual spectacle, as his playing invokes incredible illusions, conjuring vibrant worlds of color, light, and sound. The film’s use of shadows, textures, and natural environments creates a world that feels both magical and grounded in reality.

The vast landscapes—from enchanted forests to mythical mountains—are vast and immersive, pulling the audience into Kubo’s world. The film’s color palette evolves throughout the journey, with warmer hues and vibrant tones signaling Kubo’s growth, while darker tones dominate the more intense battle sequences and moments of internal struggle.

Themes and Direction

At its core, Kubo and the Two Strings 2 is about legacy, identity, and the power of storytelling. Kubo’s journey is not just one of magical discovery, but also a search for who he is and what kind of person he wants to become. The film emphasizes the importance of family, memory, and passing down knowledge through generations.

The theme of music continues to be central to the story, with Kubo’s magical instrument—his shamisen—serving as both a tool of power and a symbol of connection. Music is a thread that ties the narrative together, representing the harmony between Kubo’s inner world and the external struggles he faces.

The sequel also explores the complex relationship between light and dark, as Kubo must confront not just external threats, but the darkness within himself and his own past. It is a journey of emotional and spiritual growth, asking Kubo—and the audience—to consider what it means to be a hero, and what sacrifices are necessary to protect the ones we love.

Conclusion

Kubo and the Two Strings 2 (2025) is a triumphant sequel that expands on the world, characters, and themes introduced in the first film. With stunning animation, a compelling storyline, and deep emotional resonance, this sequel promises to be just as magical, if not more so, than the original. Kubo’s journey of self-discovery and heroic action offers a fresh perspective on familiar mythologies, while introducing new challenges, breathtaking visuals, and a new villain that will keep audiences on the edge of their seats.

Fans of the original Kubo and the Two Strings will find themselves enchanted once again by the beautiful craftsmanship of Laika Studios, while newcomers will be drawn into a rich world of magic, adventure, and family. The film is poised to continue the legacy of one of the most visually stunning animated films of the past decade.