What if, with a simple wave of a magic wand, we could live the life we have so dreamed of? It would be so easy. It is with this image that unfolds Disenchanted (once upon a time 2), 15 years after the first chapter.
With Adam Shankman directing (Rock of Ages, hairspray), music and dance are in the spotlight and wonderfully expose the wish of Giselle (the versatile Amy Adams) to rediscover the magic of her universe in order to make her life more magical. The addition of suburban queen Malvina Monroe (Maya Rudolph) energizes the film. The two actresses offer us the best duet in song, with all the talent that we know of them.
The male characters of Robert Philip and Prince Edward (Patrick Dempsey and James Marsden) have been relegated this time in the second, even in the third plan. Although the film revolves around Giselle’s desire to change her life, we would still have liked a more generous presence of the two actors. The latter nevertheless offer an honest composition of the caricature of the fairy tale, the first as a valiant defender of the widow and the orphan, and the second as a prince charming. As for Idina Menzel as the wife of Prince Edward, it is above all her vocal flights that will mark the spirits, particularly in Love Power, theme song of the film. Finally, references to Cinderella, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs as well as The beauty and the Beast are a nice addition.
Disenchanted does not revolutionize the genre or go down in history. However, it is a good sequel that fits into Disney morality. We will even go so far as to say that the work allows us to understand the importance of remembering the beautiful moments of the past to better invest in those of the future. Friendly entertainment, yes. Up to the first part? We would have needed a little more.
On Disney+
Musical comedy
Disenchanted (vf once upon a time 2)
Adam Shankman
With Amy Adams, Patrick Dempsey, Maya Rudolph, James Marsden, Idina Menzel and Gabriella Baldacchino
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