Once upon a time, Descendants was a beloved trilogy featuring Dove Cameron, Sofia Carson and Cameron Boyce. When the original films wrapped, fans weren’t sure what was going to happen to the franchise. In 2024, a spin off was born. Audiences were taken on a journey to Wonderland and were introduced to new characters such as Red (Kylie Cantrall), Chloe (Malia Baker) as well as the Queen of Hearts (Rita Ora) and Cinderella (Brandy). It was off to a shaky start and I was doubtful when the next film, Wicked Wonderland, was announced. But curiosity got the better of me and now here we are.

Picking up after the events of The Rise of Red, Red and Chloe are adjusting to life after their time traveling adventures. Although they got what they wanted: the Queen of Hearts is now kind and Cinderella is safe, there are still consequences for altering the timeline. Soon, a new foe makes himself known. Maddox Hatter (Leonardo Nam) is out for justice and when he captures the Queen of Hearts, it is up to Red, Chloe and their new friends to save her and Wonderland.

This film was more enjoyable than the last. I thought the storyline was more intriguing and the new characters were welcome additions. Red now has a sister named Pink (Liamani Segura) who came about due to the timeline change. As Pink is my happy color, I loved that there is now a character that perfectly encapsulates everything pink. We also got to know Hazel Hook (Kiara T. Romero), Captain Hook’s daughter and Luis Madrigal (Alexandro Byrd), Luisa Madrigal’s son. My only qualm with Luis was that he possessed the same magical powers as his mother, which if you have seen Encanto, does not align with the rules of magical powers. The hints of a romantic relationship between Red and Luis as well as Chloe and Hazel were apparent and they peaked my interest. I’d be up for more of them in the inevitable next instalment.

Where I couldn’t help but feel let down was just in the lack of magic. While the sets are a beautiful technicolor palette that is so appealing to my senses, it feels like something is missing. The acting is subpar at best and the songs are not as catchy as they once were. The only stand out for me this time around was the duet between Brandy and Ora and I wouldn’t be surprised if that was largely because they are so iconic themselves. I can’t remember any of the other ones.

Descendants: Wicked Wonderland was a step up from its predecessor. I was more invested this time around thanks to the interesting plot and the new faces. It will never hold a candle to the first three films, but perhaps it doesn’t have to. Maybe it can stand on its own. I’ll continue to watch, but I need to stop expecting it to be something it’s not.

Rating: ♥️♥️.5