MARCUS CHEONG watches smash-hit ‘Frozen”s next instalment…
Frozen II (AU – PG/UK – U/US – PG)
In A Word: Heart-warming
Elsa (Kristen Bell) returns to head a cast including old favourites like the snowman Olaf (Josh Gad) in Frozen II.
In 2013, Frozen launched to tremendous success and became a worldwide phenomenon. The millions of fans have fueled an avalanche of spin-offs that include toys, games, books, “on ice” shows and even a Broadway musical. Now, six years later, the sequel, Frozen II, is set to captivate audiences once more with its icy charm.
“Frozen II succeeds in the monumental task of being a worthy sequel to the original and will delight audiences both young and old. The skillful blend of humour, action, music and drama will warm all but the coldest of hearts.”
Set three years after the original, Arendelle is prospering under rule of Queen Elsa (Idina Menzel), supported by her courageously loyal sister, Anna (Kristen Bell). The sisters, the lovable snowman Olaf (Josh Gad), and love interest Kristoff (Jonathan Groff) celebrate their friendship at the coming of autumn with the promise that even though the seasons change, their relationships will always remain.
Their bonds are soon be tested, however, when a mysterious elemental force attacks the city and they are sent on a dangerous quest to find the source of the danger in the Enchanted Forest. There, Elsa and Anna must discover the secret history of their family and reveal the truth so that disaster may be averted. The adventure is full of wondrous magic, exciting battles and, of course, a bevy of catchy songs that range from hilarious to inspirational.
Frozen II’s story cleverly expands the world of these beloved characters and reveals so much more about their past. The revelations are truly satisfying and the new subplots give each character a chance to shine.
Kristoff’s bumbling attempts to propose to Anna are a source of great amusement and build to a highlight with the 90’s-style, power ballad Lost in the Woods. Olaf ramps up the humour levels with his arc of growing consciousness and self awareness. Elsa and Anna both show courage and perseverance in their own way that will have audiences both cheering and in tears at key moments in the journey.
There is a powerful message of how to cope when all seems lost in Anna’s climatic song The Next Right Thing. Here, there is a transformation from the depths of grief to newfound purpose which reinforces the theme of conviction to do what’s right, even in the face of great loss.
Frozen II succeeds in the monumental task of being a worthy sequel to the original and will delight audiences both young and old. The skillful blend of humour, action, music and drama will warm all but the coldest of hearts.
