Frozen 2, the sequel we've all been waiting for... By Caitlin Taylor
Ever since the release of Frozen in 2016, and the considerable success it achieved, everyone expected a sequel would soon follow. However, since, Disney has admitted that Frozen was written to be a stand-alone film and this could explain why it has taken 6 years for the sequel to finally hit the screens. Although, at first this may make it seem as though the film is being made purely for the money, the quality and obvious amount of thought that went into it speaks for the contrary.
Viewers are reunited with the characters of the first film and join them as they embark on an adventure that explores new horizons beyond the city of Arendelle. Frozen 2 does a great job of keeping the themes of its predecessor, keeping the focus on the sibling relationship of Anna and Elsa rather than the romantic relationships of the film and promoting female independence and strength. It continues to break the stereotypes of the princess being saved by the prince and contains some amazing new songs to rival ‘Let it go’. The way in which this film differed from the first one for me is the more mature storyline and darker themes. Although adding further depth to the world, by answering the questions left over from Frozen and giving us more backstory, Frozen 2 had a more overtly dark tone, with the more mature themes of betrayal and death. However, the comedic relief character of Olaf, everyone’s favourite snowman, was always there to lighten the mood, be it with a hilarious retelling of the first film or an amusing comment. For those who loved the magic of the first film, the second film will not disappoint you. The movie sees Elsa gain new abilities and introduces a new setting filled with magical spirits and creatures.
As for the critics, general opinion seemed to be that the sequel didn’t quite live up to the original but was still praised as a high quality and thoroughly enjoyable family film. One critic noted that “it’s great to see Anna’s character strengths once again being put on equal footing with Elsa’s magical gifts”, reinforcing the idea from the first film that family is the most important thing. Overall, it’s no surprise that the film has been so well received by Frozen fans, the only question is, will there be another one?