Disney’s Freakier Friday, released in theaters on August 8, 2025, has arrived as a vibrant sequel to the beloved 2003 hit Freaky Friday. Directed by Nisha Ganatra, this fantasy-comedy builds on the body-swapping legacy of Mary Rodgers’ 1972 novel, delivering a multigenerational twist that’s equal parts nostalgic and fresh. Starring Jamie Lee Curtis and Lindsay Lohan reprising their iconic roles as Tess and Anna Coleman, the film introduces new faces like Julia Butters and Sophia Hammons, weaving a chaotic yet heartfelt tale of family dynamics. With a 76% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes and a projected opening weekend gross of $27–30 million, Freakier Friday has sparked excitement among fans and critics alike. This review explores why this sequel stands out as a fine, fun addition to Disney’s growing catalogue of reboots, balancing nostalgia, humor, and modern family themes.
A Nostalgic Return with a Modern Twist
Freakier Friday picks up 22 years after the original, where Tess (Curtis), a psychiatrist, and her daughter Anna (Lohan), a former rock star now managing a pop artist, navigate new challenges. Anna is a single mom to Harper (Julia Butters), a rebellious teen, and is preparing to marry chef Eric (Manny Jacinto), who has a daughter, Lily (Sophia Hammons). The plot thickens when a magical mishap triggers a four-way body swap among Tess, Anna, Harper, and Lily, leading to hilarious misadventures as they tackle merging families, a wedding, and teenage rivalries. The premise echoes the original’s mother-daughter swap but expands it to reflect blended family dynamics, making it resonate with 2025 audiences.
The film’s nostalgic pull is undeniable. For millennials who grew up quoting Freaky Friday lines and rocking out to Pink Slip’s “Take Me Away,” this sequel is a love letter to their childhood. References to the 2003 film abound—cameos from Chad Michael Murray as heartthrob Jake, Christina Vidal Mitchell, and others, plus nods to iconic scenes like the Chinese restaurant fortune cookie swap. Yet, Freakier Friday avoids being mere nostalgia bait. It updates the story with Gen Z humor, addressing modern teenage life—think gluten-free bake sales and “no triggering” signs—without relying on dated TikTok references. This balance keeps the film accessible to new viewers while delighting longtime fans.
Stellar Performances from a Talented Cast
The heart of Freakier Friday lies in its cast, led by Curtis and Lohan, whose chemistry remains electric. Curtis, an Oscar winner, steals the show with her comedic flair, especially when embodying a teenager in Tess’s body, navigating high school with a mix of glee and embarrassment. Her standout scenes, like reluctantly grabbing “senior supplies” at a store, blend humor with heartfelt vulnerability. Lohan, in a triumphant return, balances Anna’s rock-star cool with maternal struggles, proving her comedic and dramatic chops remain sharp. Their reunion is a highlight, with critics noting they “slip back into roles like mixed-and-matched gloves.”
Newcomers Julia Butters (Harper) and Sophia Hammons (Lily) hold their own, bringing fresh energy as bickering teens. Butters, known for Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, delivers a subtle Lohan impression when swapped, while Hammons captures Lily’s angst with charm. Manny Jacinto’s Eric wins over skeptics as Anna’s new love interest, replacing the original’s Jake with warmth and wit. The ensemble, including returning actors like Mark Harmon and Stephen Tobolowsky, adds depth, though some cameos feel brief, leaving fans wanting more.
Critics praise the cast’s commitment to the absurdity of body-swapping, making even the silliest moments—like food fights and makeover montages—feel authentic. The performances ground the film’s chaos, ensuring emotional beats about family and empathy hit home.
A Heartwarming Blend of Humor and Heart
Freakier Friday excels as a family comedy, blending slapstick humor with poignant themes. The four-way swap creates comedic gold: Tess as Harper fumbles through teen slang, Anna as Lily grapples with school rivalries, and the teens in adult bodies hilariously navigate grown-up responsibilities. The script, penned by Jordan Weiss, leans into Disney’s signature charm—think school detention scenes and impromptu fashion shows—while keeping the humor smart. Audiences have laughed out loud at Curtis’s exaggerated teen antics and Lohan’s flustered attempts at parenting.
Beyond the laughs, the film delivers a heartfelt message about understanding across generations. It explores the complexities of blended families, with Harper and Lily’s rivalry mirroring Tess and Anna’s past tensions. The body swaps force each character to see through another’s eyes, fostering empathy and highlighting the power of unconditional love. Critics have called it “a heart-on-its-sleeve ode to strengthening family bonds,” with tender moments that leave viewers teary-eyed. The film’s ability to balance silliness with sincerity makes it a standout for family audiences.
A Soundtrack and Visuals That Pop
The film’s soundtrack is a nostalgic yet modern delight, featuring a new version of Pink Slip’s “Take Me Away” and a mix of classic rock and contemporary pop. Composed by Amie Doherty, the score enhances the film’s emotional and comedic beats, with tracks that have audiences tapping their toes. Visually, Freakier Friday shines with a vibrant 2.39:1 aspect ratio, a departure from the original’s 1.85:1, giving it a cinematic feel. Ganatra’s direction, paired with dynamic cinematography, captures both the chaos of body swaps and the warmth of family moments, from bustling LA streets to intimate wedding scenes.
While some scenes feel rushed or awkwardly transitions, the film’s brisk pace—clocking in at 1 hour 55 minutes—keeps the energy high. The visual effects, blending practical and CGI for the swap sequences, add a magical touch without overwhelming the story. These elements elevate Freakier Friday beyond typical Disney Channel fare, making it a theatrical event.
A Worthy Addition to Disney’s Reboot Catalogue
In an era of Hollywood reboots, Freakier Friday stands out for respecting its source while carving its own path. Unlike some sequels that dilute beloved characters, this film honors Tess and Anna’s growth—now a grandmother and mother, respectively—while introducing Harper and Lily as relatable additions. Critics note its “fresh yet nostalgic vibe,” with a 62/100 Metacritic score reflecting generally favorable reviews. Early reactions on X call it a “true delight” and “double the fun” of the original, with audiences appreciating its intergenerational appeal.
However, the film isn’t flawless. Some find the plot predictable, echoing the original’s formula, and certain story elements—like rushed cameos or pacing issues—could use polish. A few critics argue it doesn’t match the 2003 film’s caliber, with overly silly moments or heavy-handed Disney cheese. Yet, these flaws don’t overshadow its charm. Freakier Friday succeeds where many reboots fail: it feels like a passion project, not a cash grab, capturing the aughts’ family-movie magic while speaking to today’s audiences.
Final Verdict
Freakier Friday is a delightful addition to Disney’s reboot catalogue, offering a frothy, fun escape that’s both nostalgic and relevant. With standout performances from Curtis and Lohan, a fresh take on the body-swap genre, and a heartfelt message about family, it’s a film that resonates across generations. While it may not surpass the original, it doesn’t need to—it’s a worthy successor that delivers laughs, tears, and a reminder of why we love these characters. Whether you’re a millennial revisiting your childhood or a new viewer diving into the chaos, Freakier Friday is a must-see in theaters. Catch it now, and stream the original on Disney+ to complete the experience.
