Pocahontas II: Journey to a New World (1998)

Pocahontas II: Journey to a New World Poster

When news of John Smith's death reaches America, Pocahontas is devastated. She sets off to London with John Rolfe, to meet with the King of England on a diplomatic mission: to create peace and respect between the two great lands. However, Governor Ratcliffe is still around; he wants to return to Jamestown and take over. He will stop at nothing to discredit the young princess.

Introduction
"Pocahontas II: Journey to a New World" is a 1998 direct-to-video sequel to the 1995 Disney movie "Pocahontas". The animated movie explores the historical story of Pocahontas from a brand-new perspective by concentrating on her journey to England after the events of the first film. The sequel was directed by Tom Ellery and Bradley Raymond, featuring Irene Bedard returning as the voice of the title character.

Plot
The film starts in Jamestown where Governor Ratcliffe is controling King James into thinking that the Native Americans are savages and a hazard. He tries to encourage the king to send him back to Jamestown with an armada to eliminate them. However, John Rolfe, a diplomat, intervenes and encourages the king to provide him a chance to restore the Chief for a peace negotiation before resorting to violence.

In the New World, Pocahontas, who is now a tribal chief after her daddy's death, is attempting to prevent a possible war caused by Ratcliffe. When Rolfe arrives looking for Chief Powhatan, she reveals herself as the people leader, much to his surprise, and chooses to accompany him to England to ensure peace in between their people.

In England
In England, Pocahontas faces the disdain of high English society and battles with their bias and arrogance. She exists before King James and Queen Anne at the Hunt Ball however her straightforwardness and rejection to bow down ignite the king's rage. At the same time, Ratcliffe prepares to execute her for treason.

With the assistance of Rolfe and her animal pals - Meeko, Flit the hummingbird, and Percy the canine, Pocahontas escapes from prison and impersonates a maid to reach the king. They manage to expose Ratcliffe's treachery, conserving her individuals from the impending attack.

Love Triangle
A significant subplot of the movie is the love triangle between Pocahontas, John Smith and John Rolfe. Thinking John Smith to be dead, Pocahontas gradually falls for Rolfe as he helps her navigate through England's society. The stress intensifies when Smith, who is exposed to be alive, challenges Rolfe about his sensations towards Pocahontas. Eventually, Pocahontas chooses to remain in England with Rolfe while Smith leaves for other adventures.

Conclusion
"Pocahontas II: Journey to a New World" presents a new adventure for the characters, focusing on cultural differences, political machinations, and individual growth. While the very first movie was a romance set versus the historical context of early American colonization, the follow up explores cultural shock, historic misstatement and diplomacy with a more matured narrative. The representation of Pocahontas adapting to a brand-new world and standing against oppressions makes the film a landmark in Disney's female-driven narratives. Despite mixed critiques, the movie is celebrated for its captivating plot, rich animation, and compelling musical series.

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