High Level of Achievement With Much to Appreciate

Rating: 8/10 (1 December 2013)

For months, I had been hearing that Disney expected this movie to be something very special. Whether that referred to the quality of the entertainment, or the marketability as a product, I wasn't sure, but I hoped for a film that would be moving and timeless, much like the other Hans Christian Anderson adaption in their catalog. The animation is amazing. The detail in the Scandinavian setting is probably my favorite thing about the movie, but the characters are also well designed, some of the most expressive in animation. Anna in particular is a character for the ages. Most of the rest play pretty straightforward roles, but the other standout is Olaf. When I saw the first trailer for this movie, I couldn't understand how such a silly looking, slapstick creation could be part of a movie that was rumored to be a modern classic. I was 100% satisfied with the comic relief he provided. It's so nice to have a character get laughs without any wisecracks or sarcasm. Another thing I really appreciated was that the female lead did not need a man to save her. We learn that Anna needs an act of true love to keep her from freezing solid, but it turns out to be an act of sisterly love. Despite these many strong points, my first impression is that Frozen doesn't rank with the highest tier of Disney classics. Something about the story just felt a little off, and the third act felt rushed. But it is definitely something very special. Also, the music is incredible. Idina Menzel's "Let It Go" may be remembered as one of the greatest performances in any animated musical. I look forward to watching again and again over the years.