Ratings: 2.5/5
The movie garnered a mixed response, receiving a rating of 2.5 out of 5 stars. While Tessa Smith from Mama’s Geeky lauded the film for captivating a new generation of Auradon fans, most of the positive feedback centered on its fantastic musical numbers and dance routines. The movie maintained the series’ charm through a skillful blend of intense action, deep emotion, breathtaking visuals, and exceptional acting.
Plot
The story follows Red (Kylie Cantrall), the rebellious daughter of the Queen of Hearts, who receives an invitation from Uma (China Anne McClain), the headmistress, to attend Auradon Prep. However, the Queen of Hearts, harboring a long-standing grudge against Auradon, launches an attack on the kingdom. Red, along with Chloe, Cinderella’s daughter, must travel back in time using the White Rabbit’s pocket watch to prevent the Queen of Hearts from becoming a villain and stop an event that could have catastrophic consequences.
Former villain Kid Uma, now the headmaster of Auradon Prep, invites Red, the spirited daughter of the Queen of Hearts, to join the school. To undo the terrible event that turned Red’s mother into a villain, Red teams up with Chloe, Cinderella’s meticulous daughter, to prevent the Queen of Hearts from leading a revolt against Auradon.
Review
“The Rise of Red,” the fourth installment in Disney’s musical fantasy series, is a spin-off of the earlier films. Directed by Jennifer Phang and written by Dan Frey and Russell Sommer, this Disney+ production is the latest addition to the Descendants franchise. The film strikes a balance between nostalgia and novelty with a mix of returning actors and new faces. Unlike its predecessors, which premiered on Disney Channel, this movie took a different release path.
The cast delivers exceptional performances, showcasing their remarkable talent. Morgan Dudley, portraying Ella, a young Cinderella with a practical outlook and a hidden resentment towards her wicked stepmother, adds depth to the narrative. Brandy Norwood reprises her role as Cinderella with grace and elegance, exuding warmth and compassion. In a rare interview with Essence, Brandy expressed her joy in returning to the beloved role and her excitement for the new chapter in Auradon.
