Frozen is a Walt Disney production which definitely knows how to pack its punches. Since its release in November 2013, it has gained huge Box Office success. Thus far the hit animation has amassed more than $600 million worldwide, making it the second most successful Disney Animation of all time—second only to The Lion King. According to a report by Time Magazine, Frozen is also the only November release since 1995’s Toy Story to gain a Christmas-finish at second place at the Box Office. Since its November release, this 3-D family film has maintained that it’s a force to be reckoned with, freezing Box Office contenders like The Hobbit.
The animated musical’s great winning streak highlights its massive appeal and relevance to worldwide audiences. Its appeal is largely due to a strong story and layered characters that will melt even the iciest of hearts.
Set in the Scandinavian kingdom of Arendelle, the animation follows the life of the orphaned sisters whose relationship becomes estranged when Elsa, the older sister (voiced by Idina Menzel), isolates herself in an attempt to protect her sister Anna (voiced by Kristen Bell), and the kingdom from uncontrollable magical powers.
Anna, a lovable and eternally optimistic girl, sets off on a journey of epic proportions to find Elsa who confines herself to an ice castle after she involuntarily seals the kingdom in eternal winter and is accused of sorcery.
On the journey Anna meets a mountain man, Kristoff (voiced by Jonathan Groff), his cute pet reindeer Sven and a hilarious snowman named Olaf (voiced by Josh Gad). It is the snowman that offers comic relief as he expresses his sincere yet impractical fantasies of one day experiencing snow.
Though the story is loosely based on Hans Christian Andersen’s fairy tale classic The Snow Queen, it reshapes and diverts from the original story line. In doing so, the creators of Frozen offer the world a fresh Disney musical that will surely be a classic.
Conflict Results in an Engaging Story
Their journey becomes a bit more complicated with the appearance of a dozen trolls and a snow giant whose roar alone could frighten any mountain traveler. Blizzards and other dangers create even more conflict within the story as they threaten to bring Anna’s well-meaning journey to a screeching halt. Anna and her gang are not only brave but determined, conquering their challenges while forming a long-lasting bond.
It’s a story that reflects the importance of maintaining friendship and family ties—a message that will appeal to families everywhere. Though the romance seems to take backseat when compared with other classic animation adventures such as Lion King or Aladdin, this Disney classic will undoubtedly thrill both parents and children alike.
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A Musical Animation that Melts Hearts
The musical element is one aspect that makes it not only appealing but totally entertaining. The cast, many of which are Broadway stars, sing the songs brilliantly, especially Idina Menzel, the voice of Anna’s older sister Elsa.
In a powerful musical performance, Mendez sings “Let it Goâ€. This song beautifully captures the mood of a reclusive princess who finally learns how to love herself and accept the magic that is within her. She literally lets go of her fear, creating a beautiful ice castle.
Other engaging songs which serve to entertain the audience while propelling the story include “Do You Want to Build a Snowman?â€, “For the First Time in Foreverâ€, “Love is an Open Door†and “Fixer Upperâ€. Since the songs are written by Tony award-winning Robert Lopez and his wife Kristin Andersen-Lopez, it’s not surprising that they are simply splendid.
The Voice Actors
A stunning Disney animation depends on more than a great story for success. This fact is proven by the voice behind characters in Frozen. The voice actors of Frozen add a tremendous depth to the characters and the overall story as they perform breathtaking numbers. Below is a list of the movie’s main voice actors:
- Kristen Bell as Princess Anna, the protagonist
Kristen Bell is an actress and producer who’s had experience with Broadway since 2001 when she played Becky Thatcher in The Adventure of Tom Sawyer. Known for her staunch portrayal of Veronica Mars in the UPN series of the same name, this voice actor adds spunk and a sweet charisma to Anna’s character.
- Idina Menzel as Elsa, Anna’s sister (the Snow Queen)
Idina Menzel
Mendel’s voice resounds beautifully in this Disney animation. Since she’s an award-winning actress, singer and song writer, with extensive Broadway experience (e.g. Rent and Wicked), her extraordinary performance in Frozen comes as no surprise.
- Jonathan Groff as Kristoff
Jonathan Groff, a critically acclaimed Broadway star, plays the role of Kristoff who is the love interest of Anna. As the voice of Kristoff, he is both charming and endearing.
- Josh Gad as Olaf, the snowman
The hilarious snowman is played by Josh Gad, a versatile actor who has stared on Broadway in movies and television productions. He’s lent his voice to other animations such as Ice Age: Continental Drift.
Critical Reception
Since its debut, Frozen has proved that it’s a powerhouse animation that’s worthy of “classic†status. It’s been well-received by the public as well as critics. One critic, Kevin Fallon from the Daily Beast, dubbed it “the best Disney Film since The Lion Kingâ€. The sales suggest that Fallon’s statement isn’t far from the mark. After all, Frozen is one of the highest grossing Disney films of all time, second only to The Lion King.
Frozen also landed a spot in Time Magazine’s pick of the top 10 movies of 2013, beating out films like The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug to gain the number 7 spot. The animation was also praised by New York Post columnist, Kyle Smith, who in his article “Frozen Will Melt Your Heartsâ€, gives the film 3.5 out of 4 stars.
Those who want to watch one of the greatest family films that Disney has ever produced need look no further than Frozen. This film which focuses on two sister princesses goes back to the root of Disney’s genius and will resonate with audiences. It has a wonderful story, great characters and talented voice actors.
Frozen: A Box Office Hit Ideal for Families
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