Frozen ll
Frozen II takes place three years after the original movie. The movie features a more mature cast but explores questions about the past that were unanswered in the first film. Anna and Elsa's family history is examined as well as the source of Elsa's ice powers.
Elsa is the Queen of Arendelle, Anna is doing great in her relationship with Kristoff, and Olaf is maturing and reflecting on the meaning of life. Everything is normal until Elsa hears a voice from the North calling out to her. The voice reminds her of a story her parents told her as a child about the enchanted forest. This calls to flashback scenes and action in the city.
The four main characters then begin their new adventure after the context of Arendelle's past is given to audiences. Mystery and revelations strongly drive the film. In contrast to the first one, as the characters go on their adventure they face escalating dangers, higher stakes, and frequent musical moments.
The structure of the story is built on mystery and fascinating visual elements. There are many scenes of cute comedic bits that are soon followed by exposition-heavy information that takes time to process to understand how it relates to the plot and characters. This pattern goes on and it is not till the third act that the most coveted and complex information is revealed. It is an overwhelming amount of information to digest. This movie provides clarity in Elsa and Anna's parents, Elsa's powers, and musical origins that are revealed in wondrous and exciting ways. There is so much uncovered.
The music is a major highlight of the film. The songs are refreshing and bring life throughout the film. There isn't one stand out song like the original but there isn't one bad song. All the songs bring the same quality and move the story along. Visuals are a driving factor behind the performances that add to the excitement and mystery. There are so many visual marvels especially Kristoff's solo performance that pays tribute to Queen. The visual elements push limits with the animation feeling real in the nature scenes. The water effects, costumes, and vivid colors are breathtaking. Elsa's big scene towards the end is a masterpiece and unlike anything in animation.
Anna and Elsa's relationship is being tested throughout the film. They have grown closer since the first movie and constantly express their feelings to one another. This helps with making their arcs emotional and real during the dramatic scenes. Kristoff has a clearer storyline that allows audiences to get to know him better and his song is a strong example of that. Olaf supplies the comedic relief for the group.
Frozen II allows each character to showcase their individuality and qualities that make audiences love them. There is mystery, humor, and emotion with mesmerizing visuals and powerful songs. The story is packed with action and major reveals that could be paced out better but it also deepens the history and mythology behind the Frozen franchise.