Once Upon a Snowman (2020) is a delightful animated short film from Walt Disney Animation Studios, directed by Trent Correy and Dan Abraham. The film is a charming exploration of the origin story of Olaf, the lovable snowman from Disney’s Frozen franchise. Inspired by a scene from Frozen where Elsa creates Olaf, this short provides a fun and touching new perspective on the character’s creation and the moments that followed.

The story takes place immediately after Elsa’s magical powers bring Olaf to life during her song “Let It Go” in Frozen. As Elsa leaves the mountain and heads back to Arendelle, Olaf is left to navigate the world on his own. The short film focuses on Olaf’s first moments of life, as he discovers what it means to be a snowman, exploring his surroundings and wondering who he is and what his purpose is.

Olaf’s curiosity and innocence drive the narrative, and his search for self-awareness is both endearing and humorous. Through his exploration, Olaf interacts with various elements of his snowy environment, such as the trees, snowflakes, and even the animals, while trying to understand how he fits into the world. The short gives us a glimpse of Olaf’s sweet nature and endless optimism, traits that have made him a fan favorite in the Frozen films.

One of the most delightful aspects of Once Upon a Snowman is how it expands on the Frozen universe by giving Olaf a moment of personal discovery. The animation is beautiful, with crisp, snowy landscapes and warm moments of humor that perfectly match Olaf’s personality. The short is visually appealing, with vibrant colors and clever visual gags that keep viewers entertained.

The voice of Olaf, once again provided by Josh Gad, brings the snowman’s infectious joy and childlike wonder to life. His performance is full of heart, capturing the essence of Olaf’s curiosity and innocence. The music in the short also adds to the film’s lighthearted and whimsical tone, contributing to the sense of fun and warmth that runs throughout.

In conclusion, Once Upon a Snowman is a delightful and heartwarming addition to the Frozen franchise. It offers a fresh and fun look at Olaf’s origin, adding more depth to the beloved character while maintaining the humor and magic that fans adore. With its beautiful animation, charming storytelling, and lovable characters, the short is a perfect treat for audiences of all ages, showcasing the power of imagination, kindness, and self-discovery.