Overview and Purpose for Viewing
As a huge fan of the original Frozen movie, I was very eager to watch the sequel, Frozen 2, as soon as it was released. The beautiful animation, catchy songs, and lovable characters drew me in, so I knew I had to see where the story would go next. I wanted to follow the continuing adventures of my favorite Arendelle royal sisters, Anna and Elsa, along with their friends Kristoff, Olaf, and Sven. This movie looked to delve deeper into the sisters’ past and the origins of Elsa’s powers, so I was intrigued to learn those reveals.
The Good – Stunning Visuals and Music
The animation and visuals are simply gorgeous, taking full advantage of the fantasy setting. The animators brought the enchanted forests and dark seas to life through vivid, immersive environments and fluid character motions. The vibrant colors pop off the screen and small details in the backgrounds make every frame a work of art. The sweeping camera movements through leaves, mist, and northern lights add to the sense of magic and discovery.
The music is another highlight, with new catchy songs that capture the characters’ growth and relationships. I loved Elsa’s powerful solo “Into the Unknown” and Olaf’s hilarious 80s-style anthem “When I Am Older.” The melodies and lyrics capture the emotional heart of the story.
The Bad – Weak Story and Villain
Unfortunately, the plot itself feels formulaic and lacks the inspired charm of the original. The journey to uncover Elsa’s past and the truth behind her powers should be riveting, but there are no real surprises or mystery along the way. The villain is also rather one-dimensional without clear motives.
Tips for Parents – Scandinavian Folklore and Emotional Reveals
While the plot is weaker, there are poignant moments between the sisters as they learn about their family’s past that may resonate emotionally with older children. There are also depictions of Scandinavian folklore and mythology that could open up conversations about culture and storytelling. I would recommend being available to discuss some of the heavier emotional themes.
The Bottom Line
While the breathtaking animation and music showcase the immense talent behind Frozen 2, the story itself feels like a rehash of the first film without enough new ideas to justify a sequel. But for hardcore fans who want to spend more time in Arendelle with their favorite characters, it offers that along with striking visuals and songs. I wish the narrative had taken bolder risks, but I don’t regret returning to this magical animated world.