‘Frozen II’ takes the story in a new direction

BY Ron and Leigh

A sequel to the blockbuster “Frozen” (2013) was not really necessary, but mouse-eared entertainment made it inevitable (ka-ching!). In fairness, it has everything fans old and young would and should expect, such as familiar characters, gorgeous animation and original soaring tunes by Oscar winners Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez.

Jennifer Lee and Chris Buck return as co-directors while Lee also wrote the script. They honor the integrity of the characters and setting, but instead of simply turning the page, they take the story in a new direction. Although somewhat contrived, it was probably the best way to breathe new life into this young but now well-worn story.

Idina Menzel and Kristen Bell return as Queen Elsa and Princess Anna respectively. As strong leading characters, they bring forward the sisterhood of traveling empowerment. Josh Gad brings the plucky comic relief as Olaf, the snowman, while Jonathan Groff is the trusted woodsman, Kristoff. They each get ample opportunities to belt out toe-tapping melodies and anthems throughout the storyline.

In this episode, Elsa decides she must leave Arandelle to save the kingdom. When Anna insists on joining, Elsa explains, “I have my powers to protect me, you don’t.” Anna responds, “Excuse me, I climbed North Mountain, survived a frozen heart and saved you from my ex-boyfriend. And, did it all without powers. So, you know, I’m coming!” Kristoff jumps in, “Me too, I’ll drive!” and Olaf adds, “I’ll bring the snacks.” Here we go, road trip!

The group sets out to find the origin of Elsa’s powers. Reaching to the Far North, they search for an ancient magical forest. The enchanted land lies deep behind a cloud of forbidden and possibly impenetrable mist. It is there Elsa unleashes her new catchy anthem, “Into the Unknown” that may fill the radio waves throughout the holiday.

The story takes place three years after the original. The scenes are equally bright and colorful, the animation is simply magical and the tunes are non-stop. The script is filled with witty one-liners and silly throwaway lines. Comparisons to the original are expected, but it is somewhat unfair to compare to the instant classic. Although we can envision some preferring the sequel, even the naysayers will find this worthy of the franchise.

As Olaf was originally illiterate, he has learned much since then, informing the group, “Advancing technologies will be both our savior and our doom.” And, “Did you know gorillas burp when they’re happy.” Oh, he does put a smile on your face until his humor borders on becoming annoying.

Prince Agnar reads a book by “some new Danish Author,” which could reference Hans Christian Andersen, whose fairy tale; “The Snow Queen” (1844) inspired the original film. A few other fun facts: There are “Hidden Mickey’s” in several places in the movie. Kristoff sings his power ballad with references to Queen’s “Bohemian Rhapsody.”

This is Walt Disney Animation Studios’s last film of the 2010s (it’s 61st). Evan Rachel Wood provides the voice of Elsa and Anna’s mother, but in real life is younger than both. Additional voices are provided by Alfred Molina, Jason Ritter, Sterling K. Brown, Jeremy Sisto, Ciaran Hinds and Alan Tudyk.

“Frozen II” is 103 minutes and rated PG for action, peril and some thematic elements. We applaud movies that are bright, upbeat and instill life’s lessons for our children (and adults). When love seems to be so difficult, when we seem to have tried everything and lost hope, sometimes it’s best to just “do the next right thing.”

Almost everyone has seen the original, but this sequel can stand on its own, especially as Olaf provides a one-minute summary for those who need to catch up. Just enjoy the movie for what it is. Rather than make a list of comparisons with the original or nitpicking its shortcomings, we suggest you just let it go.

Ron’s Rating: B-
Leigh’s Rating: B+