Step out of Arendelle with Elsa, Anna, Kristoff, Sven, and everyone’s favorite snowman, Olaf, and get ready to embark on a journey “into the unknown” in Disney’s Frozen 2. With its dark undertones, is Frozen 2 kid-friendly? I’m breaking down all of the thematic elements in my Frozen 2 Parent Review to help you decide if your children should see this icy sequel. And of course, no spoilers.
FROZEN 2 PARENT REVIEW #Frozen2
I’m going to go out on a limb here and say that Frozen 2 is one of the most highly anticipated movies in 2019. You can agree to disagree, but ever since its original, Disney fans have not been able to “let it go.” Myself included. Frozen holds a very special place in my heart, and actually helped my oldest son through some very tough times.
I was thrilled when I heard there would be a Frozen 2, because I felt there was so much more to this story. There were many unanswered questions. Why was Elsa born with magical powers? And of course, what really happened to Anna and Elsa’s parents? Frozen 2 embarks on an adventurous journey in a quest to find those answers.
QUEEN IDUNA loves her daughters Anna and Elsa and wants to protect them at all costs – especially from the secrets of her past. But as young Elsa’s powers and questions grow, she begins to wonder if her own past may hold the answers for her family.
The Story
Frozen 2 opens when Anna and Elsa are little girls with their mother, Queen Iduna. There are SEVERAL Easter Eggs in this opening scene, so keep your eyes peeled. We’re able to see the connection Queen Iduna has with her daughters. She’s a loving mom to her girls, and as a parent myself, I could relate to her protectiveness of her children.
Frozen 2 is about finding answers. Elsa is hearing voices from The Enchanted Forest, and sets off on an adventure in hopes for resolution. Of course Anna, Kristoff, Sven, and Olaf set off to join her on this justifying journey.
The Visuals
Simply stated, the visuals are stunning. It’s sometimes hard to believe you’re watching an animated film. I remember a scene with water, and it looked so natural; the ripples in the water rolling perfectly so. The Enchanted Forest is beautiful. It’s filled with vibrant colors of autumn, which was reflected brilliantly on the Red Carpet during the Frozen 2 World Premiere. The cinematography flowed elegantly throughout the entire film. Frozen 2 is really a visual masterpiece. I remember sitting in the Dolby theater thinking to myself, “Wow.” I can’t even find the words for how impressive it really is.
The Music
This is one soundtrack you’re going to be playing on repeat. It’s really THAT good. First of all, let’s talk about Elsa’s new song, “Into the Unknown.” This is the song your kids will be singing over and over again. Like “Let it Go,” it tells a story. Elsa’s inquisitive about the voice she keeps hearing. She asks, “Or are you someone out there who’s a little bit like me? Who knows deep down I’m not where I’m meant to be?” Elsa has questions and to be truly content in her life, she needs to venture “into the unknown” in search of her destiny.
Another song to watch for is “Show Yourself,” a powerful ballad sang by Elsa and Queen Iduna. Don’t hate me, but I actually liked “Show Yourself,” better than “Into the Unknown.” Shocking. I know.
But if I’m being honest, the best (and most hilarious) song goes to Kristoff. That’s right…Kristoff gets a stand along song WITH Sven! And it will have you laughing so hard you’ll cry! Think of it as an 80’s power love ballad. It is hysterical and a fun moment in the film. You will be rolling with laughter!
What about Olaf?
Let’s not forget about everyone’s favorite snowman! Olaf is literally living his best life with a permafrost surrounding him, thanks to Elsa’s magical powers. He’s still the curious snowman we know and love, but he’s a bit wiser. He’s growing up. I will say that Olaf is a COMPLETE scene stealer. He has the very best lines, and he’s even funnier in Frozen 2 than he was in the original! Olaf provides the necessary comedic relief we all need during those more dark scenes. Your kids (and you!) will love this fun snowman who lives for the sunshine even more!
Is Frozen 2 Kid-Friendly?
The big question. Should you take your children to see Disney’s Frozen 2? Is Frozen 2 safe for kids? While yes, Frozen 2 is mysterious and much more dark than the original, it still has the same delightful spark as the original. The story itself dives deeper into these characters. It gives our beloved characters depth and showcases their evolution. There are some great messages in this film. A lot of those messages will go over the younger kids’ heads, but they will still enjoy the story and the catchy songs. Frozen 2 has a run time of 2 hours. However, it is action packed with no downtime. It goes by relatively quickly and will have you engaged and on the edge of your seat the entire time. I don’t see kids getting bored at this one — I do see them asking to see it again!
PG Rating
Disney’s Frozen 2 is rated PG for action/peril and some thematic elements, and rightfully so. Because Frozen 2 is dark and more mature, there might be a few scenes that could potentially be scary for little ones.
Violence: There is a pretty intense war scene in the beginning of Frozen 2. There are also “Earth Giants” which might appear scary.
Language: I didn’t catch one single word that I wouldn’t want my children to hear. Thank you, Disney!
Adult themes: Anna and Kristoff kiss, but it’s nothing crazy. Kristoff is also trying to propose to Anna throughout the entire film, all at the most inconvenient moments. It’s hilariously awkward!
Conversation starters: Oh my, there are SO many good ones! The power and celebration of sisterhood is still very strong in Frozen 2. The theme of bravery is very evident, especially with Anna. She will truly do anything for her sister, even run into fire! While I’m not suggesting your children do the same, Anna’s devotion is still an admirable quality. She exemplifies bravery. These characters all go through evolution in Frozen 2. It’s interesting to look back and see where they started and where they end up.
I also want to add, that as a boy mom, I am beyond thankful Disney created a character with traits I strive daily to teach my boys. Kristoff is truly a role-model for boys, showing that vulnerability and expressing emotions is normal and okay!
Final Thoughts
While I feel that Frozen 2 is absolutely kid-friendly, you always know your children best. I plan on taking my two boys ages (almost 6 & 10), and I know they will love it. While yes, Frozen 2 is darker and more mysterious, that doesn’t make it a bad thing. I think it’s good to expose our children to different thematic elements. The ending is very pivotal for all characters, but especially for Anna and Elsa. It will leave you speechless, and having such an appreciation for these characters and their evolution.
Grab your whole family and head to the theaters on November 22, 2019 to take your own journey into the unknown. Frozen 2 is beautifully breathtaking and will be a family favorite you will treasure and want to see again and again!
About Frozen 2
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. From the Academy Award®- winning team—directors Jennifer Lee and Chris Buck, producer Peter Del Vecho and songwriters Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez—and featuring the voices of Idina Menzel, Kristen Bell, Jonathan Groff and Josh Gad.
Follow Frozen 2 on Social Media:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DisneyFrozen/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/disneyfrozen/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/DisneyFrozen
Hashtag: #Frozen2 on all social media channels
Frozen 2 opens in U.S. theaters on Nov. 22, 2019
I hope you enjoyed my Frozen 2 Parent Review. Will you be taking your family to see Frozen 2 in theaters?
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I loved this movie, too! I thought Kristoff’s song was amazing–actually everything about his character was great! And I have been singing Unknown ever since seeing the movie!
I love how they developed his character!
I’m taking my 11 year old daughter and her friend to this next weekend so your review is very timely indeed. It seems like it’s going to be another huge hit with the kids and I can’t wait to hear the new songs. We’ve really enjoyed the soundtrack from the first movie.
The songs are VERY catchy! I hope you enjoy 🙂