Frozen II
Starring: Idina Menzel, Kristen Bell, Josh Gad, Jonathan Groff
Directed By: Chris Buck, Jennifer Lee
Rated: PG
Where were you when you first saw Frozen? I was at a mall movie theater the week of Thanksgiving with friends. The theater was packed, and we had no idea the movie we were watching was going to become one of the most famous animated films of all time. I’m sure you can remember when the 2013 phenomenon premiered to mass hysteria. Let It Go took over radio stations, Anna and Elsa's costumes dominated Halloween, and Olaf gave Frosty a run for his money in terms of Most Popular Snowman Status. But Frozen premiered six years ago and so much has changed since then. Does the film still have its charm and appeal?
The answer to that question is a resounding yes. Despite a six-year hiatus, Frozen II manages to capture the magic of Frozen and return without a hitch. Anna and Elsa are back in Arandelle, celebrating a Harvest feast with the lovable Olaf, Kristoff, and Sven. The celebrations are disrupted when Elsa hears a voice calling out from an enchanted forest. This leads the two sisters to set out on another exciting journey together with some help, of course.
The film does a great job of keeping the sisterly bond Of Elsa (Idina Menzel) and Anna (Kristen Bell) intact. They’ll do anything to keep each other safe, even cross a mysterious enchanted forest. Frozen II is Elsa’s movie as she goes on a journey to find herself. The film has some meaningful moments as she tries to discover her independence. The tone of Frozen II is a bit darker than the original in terms of dealing with the unpredictable nature of the forest. Thankfully, Olaf is there to lighten the mood at just the right times. He gets a little existential, contemplating the meaning of a snowman’s life. Of course, he has a moment to shine with his solo “When I’m Older,” an ironic song detailing how everything will make sense when he ages! Josh Gad’s voice acting provides a flurry of hilarious moments throughout the film.
A theme that’s present throughout Frozen II is that of change. One of the first musical numbers, “Some Things Never Change,” highlights how surroundings are continually changing, but meaningful relationships are a constant. Whether it’s the sisterly bond of Anna and Elsa, the friendship of Anna and Olaf, or the romantic love of Anna and Kristoff, their relationships are constant throughout the changing circumstances of life. Whether you’re a child, teenager, or adult (let’s face it, this film will attract audiences of all ages), change is inevitable, but it can be one of life’s greatest difficulties. It is having a strong support system that helps anchor us through the uncertainty of change. Frozen II’s greatest villain isn’t a scary monster or evil prince, but learning to become acquainted with the constant of life’s changes. It’s a refreshingly mature path for a Disney film.
The animation here is probably the most beautiful I’ve ever seen of the recent Disney films. Some of it looks like you’re watching live-action images. There are scenes with Elsa in the sea that are stunning. The entirety of the film deals with an enchanted forest that is so beautifully detailed. It might help that I’m personally obsessed with fall, and it’s an autumnal forest.
I’ve heard some criticism that the music in Frozen II isn’t as strong as the first film, but I disagree. I love this soundtrack. And have had it on repeat since I watched the movie. “Into The Unknown” and “Show Yourself” are instant classic Disney hits that will be belted at sing-a-longs. Idina Menzel’s voice powerfully carries both songs to soaring heights. (She really is wickedly talented!) Kristoff’s Lost In The Woods is a hilarious power ballad that pays homage to 80’s bands. The entire sequence looks like it’s lifted from an 80s music video...with reindeer, of course.
At times, Frozen II does feel a bit formulaic to match up to the success of the first film. Specific plot points are like a mirror to match the original to walk on the safe side. The songs may be different but they are placed at almost the exact same times in the first through third acts, Olaf gets a fun solo to relieve tension, and Anna and Elsa must learn a valuable lesson about sisterhood. If it all sounds a bit familiar it’s because it is. One side plot involving Kristoff and Anna’s relationship also feels a bit repetitive. I can’t complain too much because I was consistently entertained watching Frozen II.
The plot of Frozen II may be similar to the first film in some aspects, but that doesn’t mean this isn’t an enjoyable return to Arandelle. What can I say? I’m a sucker for a good Disney musical, and I’m happy to report that Frozen II is an empowering and fun movie that highlights the importance of family and friendship.
My Rating: 7/10