FROZEN 2 PARENT MOVIE REVIEW
Can we Let It Goooo yet? I think you know the answer to that: no, no we cannot. And now that I got that song back in your head, it’s time to head Into the Unknown with Frozen 2. It opens everywhere on November 22, 2019 with Elsa, Anna, Kristoff, Sven and Olaf traveling outside the gates of Arendelle on an epic adventure. This Frozen 2 parent movie review will let you know what to expect from the sequel. Is it all good things? Mostly. But you (and your kids) might need some warm hugs after this one.
Table of Contents
What’s Frozen 2 About?
Why was Elsa born with magical powers? The answer is calling her and threatening her kingdom. Together with
Anna, Kristoff, Olaf and Sven, she’ll set out on a dangerous but remarkable journey.
In “Frozen,” Elsa feared her powers were too much for the world. In “Frozen 2,” she must hope they are enough.
Frozen 2 Review
When it comes to movies, I’m generally looking for an overall sense of satisfaction. If a movie keeps my attention, has me engaged, and leaves me thinking about it after the lights come up, I consider it a success.
Frozen 2 is more than a success based on that criteria; a week later and I’m still thinking about certain songs, specific Frozen 2 quotes, and the overall masterpiece of animation that you see in this movie.
Is it my most favorite animated film ever? Not by a long shot. But it has certain aspects that land it solidly in my top 10 of recent animated films.
The Animation in Frozen 2 Is Mind-Blowing
Frozen 2, above all else, is a stunningly beautiful film. The work that went into animating this sweeping epic story stands out and is more memorable than Olaf’s funniest lines or Kristoff’s new song.
Though the animation accompanying Kristoff’s song is something you won’t forget. Ever.
Whatever issues the film had with plot, pacing, and story, the technical side of things almost makes you forgive the slightly messy story.
After the scene where Elsa tames a water horse and arrives at her destination, I whispered: “Pixar who?” And you know how much I love me some Pixar films.
The Story Is A Bit Messy in Frozen 2, But Has Important Points To Make
It’s an origin story, of sorts.
As Elsa’s powers grow and change, the time has come to find out just where they came from. The family, because this is clearly what they have all become, must set off to find out the source of Elsa’s powers.
And they better hurry because the kingdom of Arendelle is in danger.
It should be a simple journey into the unknown, but nothing is simple about this plot. Even Olaf has evolved to a more complex character (he can read, he has permafrost) and that’s just a start.
What’s wonderful about this story is also what makes it a bit confusing. All four principal characters have been fleshed out and expanded.
Which also made multiple storylines and plotlines a bit harder to follow because there’s so much going on all at once. Elsa is once again the focus with her powers taking on new shapes, but Anna is the character with the most growth throughout.
And if you have talents like Josh Gad and Johnathan Groff, the filmmakers would be criminal to continue to ignore and they finally get full use on screen.
We get a lot more Olaf and he’s just as delightful as ever. All good things, here.
But we really hit the jackpot with the expanded story of Kristoff. As a supportive boyfriend, Disney gets this one right. He has a moment where he could have saved Anna and instead simply says- I’m here, what do you need?
FINALLY.
There are so many themes to explore that are touched upon in subtle and not so subtle ways: Anna and Elsa are in pants during this movie, not dresses for example. Down with the patriarchy!
There’s a focus on indigenous people without making them into caricatures. Just a lot of positive moves that make this movie so much more than just a kids’ film.
Oh, and that Kristoff song I mentioned before? I’m still laughing over this one. And it’s not a funny song- but the way it’s told is what will have you crying tears and remembering your 8th-grade self singing Bryan Adam’s Heaven.
I honestly cannot remember the tune or the words, but THAT SONG is one heck of a fun moment in the movie.
The Music of Frozen 2: Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez Deliver Again
Because of course they did.
The soundtrack is available on November 15 and I suggest you go ahead and get started on your obsession early. You can listen to Panic at the Disco’s version of Into the Unknown now, just to get a teaser. I’m not sure it’s Let It Go levels of amazing, but… Idina Menzel’s version is pretty dang close!
But the whole movie will move you with the music.
Does Elsa Have a Girlfriend in Frozen 2?
You might want to know if Elsa has a love interest.
I know that’s the number 1 searched thing in regards to this movie: Does Elsa have a girlfriend in Frozen 2?
I don’t want to spoil any plot points but I will say that the way Elsa’s character and life develop leaves her completely (and finally!) happy and fulfilled. Without a partner of either sex.
Are There End Credit Scenes in Frozen 2?
Yes, there’s one epic end credit scene featuring Olaf that’s worth the wait through the credits.
It’s at the very end of the credits, so you do have to stick through quite a bit before you get to it, however.
Need to pee? Go when the credits start and you’ll have plenty of time to wash your hands, make a sandwich, check your mail and walk slowly back to your seat before the Frozen 2 end credit scene starts.
Seriously. You have time. But it’s worth sticking around for if you love Olaf’s best Frozen 2 quotes.
Frozen 2 Parent Movie Review
So the movie is awesome for adults, but will kids love Frozen 2? Is Frozen 2 safe for kids of all ages?
Frozen 2 is safe for kids as far as language or sexual content is concerned. It’s rated PG and on those levels and I feel it is rated appropriately.
The violence is something to consider, however, if your child is easily startled. If they are anxious about separation, this could also be a trigger point for them.
Anna and Elsa’s parents are featured in this movie, and their tragic ending is also discussed, which could be concerning to smaller children.
Overall, Frozen 2 has a deeper tone when compared to the original. More intense, less light and airy feeling. The themes explored will resonate for adults but might be a bit confusing for children at times.
My biggest thought about this from a parent standpoint is that your child might not “get” all of it, but they should still have a good time in the theater with Frozen 2. And I’m willing to pay for it a second time if we all need a re-watch to totally understand what was happening.
The movie is 1 hour and 43 minutes long- but kinda felt longer to me. Keep that in mind as it does slow and drag in parts (hey, perfect bathroom break opportunity!).
More Frozen 2 Posts You’ll Love
Walking the Frozen 2 Red Carpet
Celebs on the Frozen 2 Red Carpet
The Best Frozen 2 Quotes From Olaf
Patty Holliday is a parent movie reviewer, writer, and podcaster living in the Washington, DC area. Her goal is to bridge the gap between casual fandom and picky critic with parent movie and television reviews. As a lifelong fangirl and pop culture connoisseur, she’s been creating online since 2009. You can find her work at No-Guilt Disney.com, No-Guilt Fangirl.com, No-Guilt Life, and as host of the top-rated No-Guilt Disney Podcast.
Kristen
Sunday 24th of November 2019
It’s actually rated PG and my five year old girls were scared through almost the entire movie. Not for kids under 10-12.