Written by Isabella Baute Arboleda
Descendants: Wicked Wonderland, now available on Disney+, brings a fresh chapter to the Descendants universe. While it keeps the magical world fans know, it also introduces new faces, new songs, and a story centered on the Next Generation at Auradon. Characters like the Smee Twins, Squeaky (Dayton Paradis, Camp Rock 3) and Squirmy (Ryan McEwen, Grease: Rise of the Pink Ladies), are now teenagers after first appearing as young children in Descendants 3. As the franchise shifts its focus from the original heroes and VKs, it opens the door for a new group of characters to have the chance to lead the story.
This movie follows the events of Descendants: The Rise of Red. The story begins after Red (Kylie Cantrall, Gabby Duran & The Unsittables) and Chloe (Malia Baker, The Baby-Sitters Club) return from their journey through time. Once they are back, they discover that changing the past has created unexpected consequences. A new villain emerges and captures the Queen of Hearts, putting Wonderland in danger. To save her mother and protect Wonderland, Red must unite heroes and VKs in an alliance to face a new threat.
Like The Rise of Red, this film feels different from the first three Descendants movies. with fewer connections to characters like Mal (Dove Cameron, 56 Days), Evie (Sofia Carson, My Oxford Year) as well as the events fans already know. This leaves some questions about what happened to these characters after Descendants 3, making parts of this movie feel like a completely different story. Even so, the film succeeds in introducing a new cast and taking them on an engaging adventure filled with new challenges that test the Auradon kids.
The music, like in all Descendants films, is a highlight of Wicked Wonderland. Several new songs like “Perfect Princess” and “Dancing with the Enemy” give each character a chance to shine and express themselves while providing the audience with a joyful moment filled with good beats. Hazel Hook (Kiara Romero, Bosch Legacy), for example, stands out through sounds like “Did You Hear About Them?,” which shows her confidence, strength and powerful personality.
New characters such as Luis Madrigal (Alexandro Byrd, The Legend of Juan Jose Mundo) and Hazel Hook add excitement to the story, while their interactions with returning characters help build a thrill for what could come next. One relationship that stands out is between Luis and Red. As the movie progresses, the two begin to trust and understand each other, creating a natural connection that hints at a possible romance in a future Descendants film.
One of the strongest performances comes from Leonardo Nam as Maddox Hatter. Although Maddox was a good one in the previous movie, the sequel shows a completely different side of the character as he becomes the villain. Nam does a great job showing Maddox’s anger and unpredictable personality, making this change feel more believable. His solo scenes, especially when he sings and discusses his plans, are among the movie’s most memorable moments.
Overall, Descendants: Wicked Wonderland is an entertaining sequel that confirms the beginning of a new era for the franchise. While it may not have much connection to the original trilogy, its strong performances, memorable songs, and engaging story make it an amusing addition to the Descendants movies, by introducing new heroes, villains, and adventures. Welcome everyone to a new era of Auradon.
