Film Review: Frozen

As a HUGE fan of Broadway, it is no surprise that I would be drawn to the 2013 film, Frozen.  Every single actor in the main cast has/has had a brilliant career on the Great White Way: Idina Menzel (Elsa), Kristen Bell (Anna), Jonathan Groff (Kristoff), Josh Gad (Olaf), and Santino Fontana (Hans).

For those of you who have no idea what Frozen is about, here is a link to the synopsis of the film.

Let’s continue.

With a brilliant musical numbers by husband-and-wife team, Robert and Kristen-Anderson Lopez, wonderful animation from the Disney Animation Studios, and the cast, the audience was floored.  “Let It Go,” which many have said is reminiscent of classic Disney tunes, brought us (and by “us,” I mean “me”) to tears.  The brilliant score and lyrics, paired with the impeccable talent of the animators, make the number soar.  Also, parents of younger children have probably already heard Demi Lovato’s  rendition of the song, which was released before Idina’s version.  If you haven’t heard the song or seen the clip, here is the official video from the film: "Let It Go."

The other actors in the show are brilliant as well…(Be proud! I’m trying so hard to not to only talk about Idina!)  Kristoff (Groff) and Sven are the perfect pair of friends during the film, and are joined by Josh Gad’s hysterical Olaf.  Santino Fontana's Hans is a stark contrast to his Prince Charming character in the current Broadway company of Rodgersand Hammerstein's Cinderella.  Kristen Bell does a brilliant job with Anna, and created a sweet girl that everyone was rooting for. 

One part of the casting that makes me happy is that the actors were not chosen solely for their “names,” but for their clear levels of talent.  They principal cast, as I said before, are all Broadway veterans.  Thus, they are able to sing AND act.  All of these new musical films should take a cue from Disney and actually cast for talent not popularity!  *gets off soapbox*

Hans Christian Andersen’s 1845 piece “The Snow Queen” is the basis for the plot.  However, Disney simplified it and made it more family friendly.  Also, the funny dialogue of the film is a stark contrast to Andersen’s pieces.  (Note: I have not read the text directly, but have done some research on Andersen’s pieces…that is a common note that I've found).

Love and acceptance are the two main themes of the film.  Love - in respect to family and romance – was handled well.  The idea that we should accept people the way they are, and love them, is seen clearly through Elsa’s treatment in the film. 

Overall, a great film that everyone should see!