Remember Let It Go? That really annoying catchy, empowering song from the original 2013 film, Frozen? Well, we’ve been singing it involuntarily for six years now, so generous husband-and-wife composers Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez have given parents everywhere brand new material to hum.
I for one was extremely surprised that Frozen was getting a sequel. The danger of sequels is that they tend to over-egg the original film’s success – rehashing the bits everyone liked the first time around and partnering them with a weak and desperate plot. The first one seemed to end perfectly, and broke records – why risk tainting its name with the dreaded ‘sequilitis’?
Because they had a bloody good idea for a story, that’s why. And even better songs.
It’s controversial, but I’m going to say it: I can take or leave Disney. I’m not a die-hard fan, and there are many Disney films I’ve either not really rated, or have just never been interested in enough to watch.
I actually didn’t watch Frozen until a good couple of years after it came out because I wasn’t amazingly impressed with the plot and characters. I didn’t like Tangled. Sorry, Disney fans. I can hear your gasps.
And, to be honest, Frozen was good – but not the best ever. However, it gripped me enough to make me want to see the sequel and find out what happened next to our spunky heroines. For the record, the best ever Disney film is obviously A Goofy Movie*.
I’m not going to give too much away here, but let me direct you to the plot of Frozen II. The movie begins with young Anna and Elsa, whose father, King Agnarr of Arendelle, tells a tale about an ‘enchanted forest’. His grandfather – the then-King – and his people went to build its villagers a dam, and form an alliance. Only for a war to break out and the forest to be locked away by a powerful mist that prevents anyone from going in. Or getting out.
Back to the present day and it’s autumn in Arendelle. We’re reintroduced to the heroes of the last movie: Kristoff and his reindeer companion Sven; adorable (and hilarious) snowman Olaf; and even our favourite cameos make a return, such as Oaken, the loveably camp shopkeeper famous for the line: “Yoo-hoo! Big summer blowout!” That could certainly be taken out of context.
So, what happens next? Well that’s where my review of the plot itself stops because I don’t want to give anything away. Let’s just say Elsa can’t sit still, and finds herself being beckoned towards the enchanted forest – which is where this movie’s answer to Let It Go comes in.
The flagship song, Into the Unknown, is again performed by the belting Idina Menzel, who plays Elsa. But she’s not alone – this time she’s accompanied by the haunting voice of Scandinavian newcomer, simply named Aurora. She’s not that new to us Brits though, as she sang the beautiful version of Half the World Away for the 2015 John Lewis Christmas ad. I’ll probably regret this once it goes viral and I get sick of it, but I’ve had this song on repeat since I left the cinema. It’s in-cred-ible.
The visuals through the music (and throughout the entire film) are mesmerising as well, with stunning animation. You really feel what the characters are going through. Every song is bewitching and you can’t take your eyes off the screen. And while most of us probably can’t relate to Elsa’s isolation through having magical powers, the powerhouse team at Disney have made it so that you really do empathise with her.
While we’re talking about Elsa, don’t get your hopes up: she isn’t revealed as Disney’s first openly gay lead, despite many, many rumours. That being said, the writers haven’t quashed the possibility – so watch this space.
Other songs to look out for are Kristoff’s Lost in the Woods, which is a hilarious nod to 80s rock power ballads; and Olaf’s When I Am Older.
Overall, Frozen II is not just for kids. I cried from start to finish – either through laughter or sadness – so bring plenty of tissues for everyone. Disney have done what they always do and challenged the status quo: it’s sad. Disastrously sad at times. Maybe it was because I watched it on my 30th birthday, but I’m talking Bambi-sad. It goes against the grain more than once. It’s about badass women that don’t need no man. In fact, it almost verges on being too top-heavy with strong female personalities.
Knowing the plot of the first film is pretty key to fully appreciating its sequel, but if you haven’t seen it – don’t worry. Olaf’s got a special recap* about a third of the way in that will have your sides splitting. Seriously, tears of laughter.
It may (will) sound terribly cheesy, but Frozen II is the epitome of what Disney’s known for – it’s magical. It makes you believe, it makes you dream and it makes you feel. My only criticism is its title – calling it Frozen II and not something like Frozen II: Into the Unknown (yeah, the song’s plagued my brain) almost undermines how much of a gem it is in its own right.
I’ll leave you with this: go and see it. BUT – go and see it at the cinema if you can. The experience of watching it on a huge screen with surround sound just enhanced every single moment. York’s City Screen is a stunning city centre location where you can grab your usual movie treats, and relax in sheer comfort. There’s also the Riverside Café-Bar on the ground floor, so you can grab a bite to eat before you go in. The burgers are delicious.
- Frozen II plays at various times all day until Thursday 5th December at City Screen, York. Click here to buy tickets.
*I’m obliged to state here that this is my opinion only, but we all know it’s the truth.
**Quick tip: sit through the credits. There’s a treat at the end.
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