Cast
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Kylie Cantrall
as Red
Malia Baker
as Chloe
Ruby Rose Turner
as Bridget
Morgan Dudley
as Ella
Dara Reneé
as Uliana
Rita Ora
as Queen of Hearts
Brandy Norwood
as Cinderella
China Anne McClain
as Uma
Joshua Colley
as Hook
Peder Lindell
as Morgie
Melanie Paxson
as Fairy Godmother
Mars
as Maleficent
Anthony Pyatt
as Hades
Julee Cerda
as Evil Stepmother
Leonardo Nam
as Maddox Hatter
Crew
Director
- Jennifer Phang
Writer
- Dan Frey
- Russell Sommer
Producer
- Wendy S. Williams
Reviews
r96sk
Comfortably the best <em>'Descendants'</em> movie.
<em>'Descendants 2'</em> is the only one of the prior three that I didn't dislike, I didn't even like that 2017 release but it is at least better than the original flick (especially!) and <em>'Descendants 3'</em>. This one is a spin-off and actually loses cast members from the trilogy, which should be a negative as they were the 'best' elements of that series.
However, this cast are good. Kylie Cantrall is a positive addition as Red, as is Rita Ora as the Queen of Hearts. Other newcomers who are pluses are Brandy and Malia Baker, Jeremy Swift is decent too. It isn't just the onscreen talent that come out positively, the story and music (no cringe induced, miraculously) are too - they are much improved.
I am surprised there weren't any major twists (unless they come in a sequel, of course), but that's not a negative. I'm also a fan of how colourful the movie looks, visually it's probably an improvement too. All in all, I'm surprised at how fairly enjoyable this was to sit through - something I hadn't yet experienced with this franchise.
Based on the Letterboxd average rating that I see post-watch, it is much lower rated than the other three films. Typical! Probably explains why I liked it, perhaps what I previously found cringe is what makes <em>'Descendants'</em>, <em>'Descendants'</em>? Each to their own and all that.
Jul 31, 2024
Pringo
**I just watched Descendants 4 and it was an emotional rollercoaster that exceeded my expectations. As a long-time fan, it was hard not seeing the original main cast, especially Dove Cameron and the others who brought so much magic to the first three movies. I deeply felt the absence of Cameron Boyce, who played Carlos. The tribute to him at the beginning, showing his picture and seeing the tears on Uma's (China Anne McClain) face, was incredibly moving and a beautiful way to honor his memory.
Despite the changes, the new characters brought fresh energy to the story. Rita Ora as the Queen of Hearts was a standout with her deliciously malevolent portrayal. I loved seeing her in this role; she brought a unique flair and intensity that made her character unforgettable. Another highlight was Red (Kylie Cantrall), who added a dynamic presence to the story and felt like a natural fit in the Descendants universe.
The plot was engaging, the music fantastic, and the choreography spectacular. The film stayed true to the spirit of the Descendants while exploring new directions.
Overall, Descendants 4 was a satisfying continuation of the beloved series. It balanced the bittersweet emotions of missing the original cast with the excitement of new adventures. This movie is a must-watch for any Descendants fan and a beautiful tribute to Cameron Boyce's legacy.**
Aug 5, 2024
Thematic Analysis
Descendants: The Rise of Red represents a fascinating example of Fantasy/Adventure/Family/Comedy cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.
Director Jennifer Phang brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 2024, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Descendants: The Rise of Red took approximately 22 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 92 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 134 minutes long.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- The musical score contains over 68 unique compositions.
- The costume department created over 335 unique costume pieces for the production.
Historical Context
- In 2024, when this film is released:
- Streaming platforms had largely replaced traditional cinema and television models.
- The COVID-19 pandemic transformed global health, economics, and social interaction.
- Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.
How This Film Stands Out
While Descendants: The Rise of Red shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Descendants, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Descendants: The Rise of Red subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Don Mendo Rock ¿La venganza? and Figaros Hochzeit explore similar territory, Descendants: The Rise of Red stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: July 11, 2024
- Runtime: 1h 32m
Where to Watch
