**Get Ready for Uma!** This is Disney Channel’s 103rd Original Movie, a sequel to the film with the same name released in 2015. It was highly anticipated, especially by Disney fans and kids. While I've always enjoyed Disney films since I was young, and still do, the release of the popular song 'Ways to be Wicked’ really kicked off the excitement for July 21st. And now it’s here! The first film was a pleasant surprise; I didn’t expect it to work as well as it did. A fresh perspective, particularly introducing a new generation of classic villains, gave the fantasy genre a modern feel. However, this installment wasn't quite as good as its predecessor. It’s an enjoyable movie, definitely, and has some decent moments. What was missing, though, was humor. The original film had a lot of fun, but this one felt more serious. Of course, it still carries a PG rating, so I think kids might find it more entertaining than adults. Directed by someone familiar with many Disney Channel films, the graphics were adequate and didn’t require a huge budget, except for the climax. Visually, that part was acceptable, but I had hoped for something a bit more spectacular. The story itself is fairly standard; mostly about a rescue mission taking place both in Auradon and on the Isle of the Lost. A major focus this time around is Uma’s introduction, making it essentially a clash between villains, with the heroes playing a less significant role. As usual, Mal carries much of the film. Besides her schooling, she now appears more like an Auradonian, having had a complete makeover. Her relationship with Ben has also been tested, and after that heartbreak, Mal returns home. The real action and adventure begin when Ben gets into trouble while pursuing his love. So, the group of good villains and bad ones have no choice but to battle it out using all their strength. A small twist resolves the issue, showing where everyone ultimately ends up. > ❝You can stick a tiara on a villain, but you're still a villain.❞ It felt like watching an Indian film, mainly because of the vibrant colors—whether in costumes or backgrounds and settings. I found it enchanting, and it’s something teen girls might envy. A better screenplay would have made it even better. The performances were wonderful; the original cast was great as always, and the new additions strengthened the movie. Especially noteworthy is Uma, daughter of Ursula from 'The Little Mermaid'. The film opens with the YouTube hit song I mentioned earlier. There are around ten songs in total, all of which are good and take up roughly one-third of the film's runtime. The placement of the musical numbers, fitting them into different moods and locations with the characters, was well done. Typically, I’m not a fan of modern musicals, but this one was enjoyable, especially because the songs were short and sweet. This isn’t just a fantasy film like those from two decades ago; it incorporates elements of today's technology, such as 3D printing, which plays an important role in the story. However, when the dog started talking, it felt like a throwback to classic animation. It made me wonder if there was some connection between Dude the dog and 'Dog with a Blog'. There were some ups and downs throughout, but overall the film landed just above average. It was broadcast simultaneously on all Disney-owned networks worldwide, as well as other children’s channels, making it the second most watched DCOM of all time. The ending wasn't perfect, but it leaves the door open for expanding the cast even further if there is a third installment. I don’t see Disney stopping this potential franchise anytime soon. In my opinion, it could become the longest-running film series for Disney Channel, potentially lasting for decades to come. So, Disney, please let us know when the next one is coming! In the meantime, catch up on the first two if you haven't already; they might surprise you, especially your kids. _6/10_

Source on TMDB