---
title: "Frozen II"
year: 2019
kind: "film"
canonical: "https://film.one/film/frozen-ii"
fi1m_id: "frozen-ii"
imdb_id: "tt4520988"
tmdb_id: 330457
wikidata_id: "Q24733929"
fi1m_score: 65
critics_score: 64
critics_reviews: 26
published: "2026-10-03T00:51:27.962526+00:00"
updated: "2026-10-03T00:51:28.566466+00:00"
region: "IN"
licence: "© Fi1m Ltd. Written by AI under a human editor; checked against sources before publication. Quote with attribution and a link to the canonical URL."
---

# Frozen II (2019)

Directed by Jennifer Lee, Chris Buck · 1h 43m · Family, Animation, Adventure, Comedy, Fantasy

## Identity

Frozen II

- **Canonical:** https://film.one/film/frozen-ii
- **Type:** Film
- **Fi1m ID:** frozen-ii
- **IMDb ID:** tt4520988
- **TMDB ID:** 330457
- **Wikidata ID:** Q24733929
- **Same entity:** https://www.imdb.com/title/tt4520988/, https://www.themoviedb.org/movie/330457, https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q24733929

**Fi1m score: 65** · Critics 64 from 26 reviews

*In a sentence:* Two singing sisters, one anxious snowman and rather more mythology than the evening needed

> The sisters and the snowman still earn our affection, and the autumn colours suit them. But *Frozen II* gives its likeable company a muddled adventure whose explanations are less involving than its songs.

## Synopsis

Elsa (Idina Menzel) searches for a clearer sense of who she is, with her sister Anna (Kristen Bell) still central to her life. Their shared happy ending gives way to an adventure through autumn scenery, where questions about the past complicate Elsa’s search. Anna also has her relationship with Kristoff (Jonathan Groff) to consider. Olaf (Josh Gad), a snowman with worries about existence, supplies a different set of questions. Change unsettles this familiar company, and the bond between the sisters becomes important as Elsa tries to understand what she wants.

## Review

Chris Buck and Jennifer Lee give *Frozen II* a sensible reason to exist: the sisters still have things to learn about themselves and each other. We find it a decent, uneven return, with enough pleasure in the performances to carry us through a story that needs too much explaining. Elsa’s search for self-understanding gives Idina Menzel something worth singing about, while the attention to Anna keeps the film from becoming entirely absorbed in Elsa’s importance. The trouble is how often the adventure asks us to sort out its mythology before we can care about it.

Kristen Bell gives Anna a warmth that survives the busy plotting, and her relationship with Elsa supplies much of the feeling the larger story struggles to earn. Menzel’s singing makes uncertainty sound urgent, even when the writing has not made the next step particularly clear. Jonathan Groff brings an agreeable earnestness to Kristoff, and the kindness within his relationship with Anna matters. There is relief in a family adventure that allows supportiveness to count as a virtue without making the supportive character dull.

The music credited to Kristen Anderson-Lopez, Robert Lopez and Christophe Beck often does the work the dialogue cannot quite manage. ‘Into the Unknown’ gives Elsa’s restlessness a directness the surrounding explanations lack, though the score can make an uncertain dramatic moment sound more important than it feels. We laughed at Kristoff’s power-ballad number, which lets his earnestness become funny without treating him as a fool. Its cheerfully excessive scale is welcome in a film so concerned with explaining itself.

Olaf also helps. Josh Gad makes his worries about existence funny enough to forgive their tendency to interrupt the adventure. His uncertainty is easy to recognise, which is more than we can say for every problem the plot sets its characters. Yet the script, credited to Jennifer Lee and Allison Schroeder, leans on him whenever the heavier material needs lightening. Some comic interruptions arrive before the preceding emotion has had time to settle.

Production designers Michael Giaimo and Lisa Keene give the autumn setting a range of colours that keeps the scenery interesting even when the action stalls. That setting suits a story about people discovering that happiness will not stop things changing. The animation rewards attention, although we sometimes found ourselves studying the scenery because the characters’ predicament had failed to grip us. The images make the journey pleasant to watch without making every stretch of it necessary.

Jeff Draheim’s editing has to accommodate comedy, songs and a considerable amount of explanation, and the shifts between them do not always feel natural. The screenplay’s interest in historical wrongs is welcome; a family film can ask awkward questions without apologising for them. Here, though, the rules and history too often need more attention than the characters’ immediate wishes, and we spend too long understanding a predicament that should be making us anxious. There is a curious shortage of tension for an adventure with so much to discuss.

The familiar company and new songs are enough to justify an evening for those already attached to the sisters. The family-adventure basics are shakier: a clear goal and a felt sense of danger should not require this much explanation. At 103 minutes, it is not excessively long, but its wandering makes it feel longer than it should. Choose it for Anna, Elsa and the songs, provided a muddled story will not spoil the evening.

*Fi1m score 65, published 3 October 2026.*

## What the critics say

The reviews lean towards qualified approval of Frozen II, with praise clustering around the animation, returning characters and humour. Critics repeatedly single out the autumnal landscapes and Elsa’s sea sequence, while Olaf’s comedy earns approval even from several reviewers who find the sequel disappointing. The sisters’ relationship remains a source of feeling for some, though enthusiasm for individual songs does not amount to agreement that the music matches the original’s.

The spread is wide, from enthusiastic recommendations to complaints that the film feels like a calculated continuation. Reservations centre on muddled mythology, meandering plotting and a weaker emotional pull, with several critics finding the ambitious themes too cautiously handled. IndieWire sees a bold challenge to the first film’s happy ending. The Hollywood Reporter instead finds the sequel predictable and overly cautious, despite enjoying its songs and Elsa’s search for herself.

## Straight answers

**Is Frozen II worth watching?**

*Frozen II* is worth watching for those already attached to Anna, Elsa and the songs, though we find it uneven and score it 65 out of 100. The warm performances, Olaf’s worries and autumn colours give us plenty to enjoy, but the adventure spends too long explaining its mythology and too little making us care about the immediate danger.

**How long is Frozen II, and what is it rated?**

*Frozen II* runs 1h 43m. It is a family and animation film.

**Where can I watch Frozen II in India?**

*Frozen II* is not on any streaming or rental service in India at the moment. It is available in 48 other countries; change your country at the top of the page to see where. Availability is checked daily.

**How does Frozen II compare to Song of the Sea?**

*Frozen II* offers likeable company and enjoyable songs, but we recommend [*Song of the Sea*](https://film.one/film/song-of-the-sea) more readily for its emotionally involving use of sibling tensions and folklore. Its watercolour images and grieving family give adults as much to appreciate as children, despite a sagging middle and loose magical rules; *Frozen II* suits those chiefly hoping for more time with the sisters.

**What should I watch after Frozen II?**

After *Frozen II*, try [*Song of the Sea*](https://film.one/film/song-of-the-sea) (2014, Fi1m 82): Sibling tensions and folklore give another animated journey its emotional pull. Then [*Kiki's Delivery Service*](https://film.one/film/kikis-delivery-service) (1989, Fi1m 86): A young heroine’s uncertainty receives patient attention, with room for ordinary kindness; and [*Moana*](https://film.one/film/moana) (2016, Fi1m 82): Another searching heroine, with songs more firmly tied to the adventure.

### Reviews we read (26)

- **Screen Daily**, Tim Grierson (90/100, inferred): The critic gives the film an enthusiastic verdict, calling it another belter. The accessible text does not identify a specific element singled out for praise or complaint. [Read](https://www.screendaily.com/reviews/frozen-ii-review/5144638.article)
- **IndieWire**, Kate Erbland (B+): Erbland finds the sequel charming and surprisingly bold, arguing that it productively challenges the first film’s happily-ever-after expectations. She praises its gorgeous animation and singles out Kristoff’s power-ballad-style song as one of the film’s best moments. [Read](https://www.indiewire.com/criticism/movies/frozen-2-review-sequel-disney-1202189123/)
- **Evening Standard**, David Sexton (4/5): Sexton says the sequel delivers, though it is less surprising and its songs are less well integrated. He praises Olaf’s performance and song, while criticizing the characters’ exaggerated body designs. [Read](https://www.standard.co.uk/culture/film/frozen-2-review-woke-sequel-tackles-imperial-guilt-and-racial-diversity-a4293771.html)
- **Time Out**, Phil de Semlyen (4/5): The critic finds the sequel irresistible. They praise its mix of big laughs, killer tunes and operatic moments. [Read](https://www.timeout.com/movies/frozen-ii)
- **Empire**, Ben Travis (75/100, inferred): The critic finds the sequel frequently dazzling and worth the return, despite a meandering, unclear plot. The animation is singled out for its jaw-dropping beauty and inventive imagery. [Read](https://www.empireonline.com/movies/reviews/frozen-ii/)
- **The Guardian**, Peter Bradshaw (★★★☆☆): Bradshaw finds the sequel funny and likable but underpowered, with the franchise’s appeal beginning to thaw. He praises its stirring new Elsa song, “Into the Unknown.” [Read](https://www.theguardian.com/film/2019/nov/14/frozen-2-review-sequel-jennifer-lee-chris-buck-idina-menzel-kristen-bell)
- **Los Angeles Times**, Justin Chang (70/100, inferred): Chang finds the sequel sweet and diverting, though its storytelling is less successful than its packaging. He praises Olaf’s comic performance and the film’s congenial returning characters. [Read](https://www.latimes.com/entertainment-arts/movies/story/2019-11-14/frozen-2-review-disney-elsa-anna-olaf)
- **Variety**, Peter Debruge (70/100, inferred): Debruge finds the sequel inventive and thoughtful, though its opening and songs sometimes feel calculated or weaker than the original. He praises its modernized values and lovely visuals, especially its supportive portrayal of Anna and Kristoff’s relationship. [Read](https://variety.com/2019/film/reviews/frozen-2-review-frozen-ii-1203404683/)
- **Radio Times**, Huw Fullerton (65/100, inferred): The headline frames the sequel as a substantial continuation of the original, but the full review verdict is unavailable. No specific praise or criticism can be verified from the accessible page. [Read](https://www.radiotimes.com/movies/frozen-2-review-the-first-film-was-just-the-tip-of-the-iceberg/)
- **RogerEbert.com** (64/100, inferred): The page is blocked by a browser check, so no critical verdict is available. It provides no praise or complaint that can be reliably summarized. [Read](https://www.rogerebert.com/reviews/frozen-ii-movie-review-2019)
- **The New York Times** (64/100, inferred): The page identifies this as a review, but its verdict is unavailable. Its specific praise or criticism cannot be determined from the accessible text. [Read](https://www.nytimes.com/2019/11/21/movies/frozen-2-review.html)
- **The i Paper**, Demetrios Matheou (★★★): Matheou finds the sequel delightful and accomplished but less effective than the original. He praises its spectacular animation while faulting the story’s lack of tension and songs that fail to produce a standout hit. [Read](https://inews.co.uk/culture/film/frozen-2-review-cast-sequel-release-date-kristen-bell-idina-menzel-365928)
- **Total Film**, Matt Maytum (3/5): The critic finds the sequel entertaining and polished, but less satisfying and essential than the original. The songs and autumnal visuals stand out, while the story’s weaker emotional arc and mythology disappoint. [Read](https://www.gamesradar.com/frozen-2-review/)
- **Slant Magazine**, Pat Brown (2/4): Brown finds the sequel’s story and representational politics confused, with its stakes obscured by its corporate-minded approach. The review praises the sisters’ relationship and Olaf’s existential subplot as hints of life beneath the film’s commercial surface. [Read](https://www.slantmagazine.com/film/frozen-ii-review/)
- **The Hollywood Reporter**, Todd McCarthy (45/100, inferred): The critic finds the sequel predictable and overly cautious, despite its entertaining elements. He praises the catchy songs and Elsa’s compelling quest of self-discovery. [Read](https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-reviews/frozen-2-review-1254398/)
- **Little White Lies**, David Jenkins (3/2/2): Jenkins finds the sequel directionless and lacking in ideas, emotion and drama. He singles out the comedy snowman as making it just about bearable, while criticizing the songs for lacking hooks and heart. [Read](https://lwlies.com/reviews/frozen-2)
- **Sight and Sound**, Kate Stables (35/100, inferred): Stables finds the sequel visually ravishing but weighed down by overcomplicated plotting and a loss of the original’s emotional spark. She praises Olaf’s comic performance and the spectacle of Elsa’s sea battle, while faulting the film’s thin characters and generic storytelling. [Read](https://www.bfi.org.uk/sight-and-sound/reviews/frozen-ii-review-disneys-spectacular-sequel-dampens-charm)
- **Vulture**, Alison Willmore (30/100, inferred): Willmore finds the sequel more calculating product than compelling film, despite its ambitious themes. She praises the striking sea sequence where Elsa battles and rides the magical water horse. [Read](https://www.vulture.com/2019/11/movie-review-frozen-ii-the-sequel-to-disneys-hit-frozen.html)
- **HeyUGuys** (80/100, inferred): The critic finds the sequel genuinely engaging and funny, despite a plot that can feel like a slog. They single out the central performances and the new songs for praise. [Read](https://www.heyuguys.com/frozen-ii-review-frozen-2/)
- **Digital Spy**, Ian Sandwell (78/100, inferred): The critic calls it an extremely satisfying sequel that comes very close to the original. They praise its songs and humor, while noting that the final third feels predictable and lacks the first film’s surprise. [Read](https://www.digitalspy.com/movies/a29786453/frozen-2-review-disney-release-date/)
- **/Film**, Josh Spiegel (6.5 out of 10): The critic calls it a good, more coherent sequel with a stronger emotional heart, though its story and Olaf’s extended comic scenes have flaws. The gorgeous animation, especially a visually striking journey of self-discovery, is its greatest achievement. [Read](https://www.slashfilm.com/570469/frozen-2-review/)
- **Collider**, Matt Goldberg (B-): Goldberg finds the sequel entertaining but lacking the original’s lasting magic, with a story that feels unfinished and plays it safe. He praises the endearing characters and gorgeous visuals, while criticizing the film’s evasive resolution of its questions about past wrongs. [Read](https://collider.com/frozen-2-review-kristen-bell/)
- **Den of Geek**, David Crow (3.5/5): Crow finds the sequel visually sumptuous and emotionally effective when it focuses on the sisters, but says it lacks the original’s magic. He praises the animation while faulting the songs and narrative for falling short of the first film. [Read](https://www.denofgeek.com/movies/frozen-ii-review-elsa-and-anna/)
- **Paste**, Andy Crump (5.9): Crump finds the film’s serious themes promising but says its softened handling undercuts their emotional impact. He praises its scenic beauty, while noting the animation could have shown greater imagination. [Read](https://www.pastemagazine.com/movies/frozen-2/frozen-2-review)
- **The Wrap**, Alonso Duralde (55/100, inferred): The critic finds the sequel entertaining but ultimately unnecessary, with its effort to recreate the original’s success weighing it down. They praise its autumnal animation and the potential of its story about confronting historical wrongs. [Read](https://www.thewrap.com/frozen-ii-film-review-2019-kristen-bell-elsa-anna-disney/)
- **Polygon**, Petrana Radulovic (42/100, inferred): The review finds the sequel entertaining but ultimately too safe, with an ending that softens the consequences of its emotional stakes. It praises the infectious songs and dazzling animation, while noting that some comedic moments disrupt the tone. [Read](https://www.polygon.com/2019/11/14/20965138/frozen-2-review/)

## Details

- **Director:** Jennifer Lee, Chris Buck
- **Director:** Jennifer Lee, Chris Buck
- **Screenplay:** Allison Schroeder, Jennifer Lee
- **Story:** Kristen Anderson-Lopez, Jennifer Lee, Chris Buck, Marc Smith, Robert Lopez
- **Editor:** Jeff Draheim
- **Music:** Christophe Beck, Kristen Anderson-Lopez, Robert Lopez
- **Production design:** Michael Giaimo, Lisa Keene
- **Producer:** Peter Del Vecho
- **Cast:** Kristen Bell as Anna (voice); Idina Menzel as Elsa (voice); Josh Gad as Olaf (voice); Evan Rachel Wood as Iduna (voice); Jonathan Groff as Kristoff / Sven / Reindeers (voice); Sterling K. Brown as Mattias (voice); Alfred Molina as Agnarr (voice); Rachel Matthews as Honeymaren (voice)
- **Runtime:** 1h 43m
- **First release (the US):** 7 November 2019
- **Genres:** Family, Animation, Adventure, Comedy, Fantasy
- **Budget:** $150 million
- **Box office:** $1.45 billion
- **Trailer:** https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vSKlICmmi98

## Where to watch in India

Not streaming, renting or buying in India at the last check.

Also available in: AE, AR, AT, AU, BE, BG, BR, CA, CH, CL, CO, CZ, DE, DK, EC, EE, ES, FI, FR, GB, GR, HK, HR, HU, IE, IL, IS, IT, JP, KR, LT, MX, NL, NO, NZ, PA, PE, PL, PT, RO, RS, SE, SG, SI, TR, UA, US, ZA. Add `?region=XX` to this URL for another country.

## Awards

- Annie Award for Best Animated Feature 2019: Annie Award for Best Animated Feature (nominated)
- Critics' Choice Awards 2019: Best Animated Feature (nominated)

## If you liked this

- *Song of the Sea* (2014), Fi1m 82: Sibling tensions and folklore give another animated journey its emotional pull. — [Fi1m page](https://film.one/film/song-of-the-sea.md)
- *Kiki's Delivery Service* (1989), Fi1m 86: A young heroine’s uncertainty receives patient attention, with room for ordinary kindness. — [Fi1m page](https://film.one/film/kikis-delivery-service.md)
- *The Snowman* (1982): For snowbound animation that trusts pictures and music to carry feeling.
- *The King and the Mockingbird* (1980): Try this for imaginative animation and a less obedient fairy-tale spirit.
- *Moana* (2016), Fi1m 82: Another searching heroine, with songs more firmly tied to the adventure. — [Fi1m page](https://film.one/film/moana.md)

---
© Fi1m Ltd. Written by AI under a human editor; checked against sources before publication. Quote with attribution and a link to the canonical URL. Canonical: https://film.one/film/frozen-ii