You can read our full thoughts on Frozen II in our review of the 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray HERE.
Vital Disc Stats: The Blu-ray
Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment brings Frozen II to Blu-ray as a two-disc combo pack with a flyer for a Disney Digital Copy. The Region Free, BD50 disc sits comfortably opposite a DVD-9 copy of the movie. Both are housed inside a blue, eco-vortex case with an embossed, glossy slipcover. At startup, the disc commences with skippable trailers before switching to a menu screen with the standard options, music and full-motion clips.
The search for the mystical Ahtohallan runs aground on the magical shores of Blu-ray with a spectacularly gorgeous, reference-quality 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 encode. Coming directly from a digital source, the freshly-minted transfer is razor-sharp from beginning to end, exposing the tiniest detail in the clothing and the surrounding foliage, especially in the rock creatures. At the same time, facial complexions are stunning and impressive, revealing the finer wrinkles and freckles in several characters. Viewers can distinctly make out the fine lines in the stitching, the discrete hairs of characters and the individual ice crystals in the snow.
This is also thanks to a crisp, spot-on contrast, displaying resplendent whites everywhere and brilliantly radiant highlights. Black levels are equally exceptional and luxurious, showering the 2.39:1 image in inky-rich shadows without sacrificing the finer aspects of the darkest corners while providing the action with an appreciable three-dimensional quality. Likewise, the palette is a feast for the eyes, bathing every scene with a sumptuously lush array of soft pastels and extravagantly vibrant primaries, especially an attractive selection of blues ranging from the deep indigos of the clothing and around the castle to the vivid arctic in Elsa's ice powers. (Video Rating: 100/100)
As seems to be the custom of all Disney releases, the animated sequel debuts with a generally satisfying DTS-HD Master Audio 7.1 soundtrack that requires boosting the master volume in order to better appreciate the many positives. After adjusting to 5dB higher than normal in my room, the soundstage displays excellent channel balance with impressive fluidly movement and plenty of background activity delivering an engaging sense of presence. Imaging, meanwhile, exhibits rich clarity and detailed definition in the mid-range, and the dialogue is, at all times, very well-prioritized over the many loud action sequences. A potent and surprisingly robust low-end provides a weighty, notable impact to certain visuals, especially those moments involving the rock creatures. Various atmospherics subtly employ surrounds from time to time though it's not consistent enough to generate a convincing soundfield. Still, with the songs and musical score doing most of the leg work, the lossless mix delivers a strong and effective presentation for the whole family. (Audio Rating: 84/100)
Picking up a few years after the events of its predecessor, Frozen II repeats the success of the first movie with another thoughtful tale that captures the imaginations of audiences. Starring Kristen Bell, Idina Menzel, Josh Gad and Jonathan Groff reprising their roles, the plot also touches on some important, more weighty concerns while on a journey of confronting past traumas and repressed memories. Past traumas land on the magical shores of Blu-ray with a spectacularly gorgeous, reference-quality HD presentation and a satisfyingly strong DTS-HD MA soundtrack. Featuring a decently good set of supplements, the overall BD package is highly recommended for Disney animation fans everywhere.
