Descendants 4: The Rise of Red centers around an intriguing prank that viewers struggle to understand. Red, the rebellious daughter of the Queen of Hearts, and Chloe, Cinderella's daughter, travel through time to save her from becoming a villain in Descendants 4, which premiered on Disney+ on July 12.
In Descendants 4, the plot goes deeper when Red and Chloe journey back in time. They want to stop a cruel prank that changes Bridget, the young Queen of Hearts. They learn that Uliana, Uma's aunt, and Ursula's sister, played a trick on Bridget and Cinderella at the "castlecoming."
The official synopsis of the show says:
"Former Villain Kid Uma, now headmaster of Auradon Prep, extends an invite to the school to another VK – Red, the rebellious daughter of the Queen of Hearts from Wonderland.
"After the Queen of Hearts incites a coup against Auradon, Red must team up with Cinderella’s perfectionist daughter Chloe, and travel back in time to try to undo the traumatic event that set Red’s mother down her villainous path."
What is the practical prank played in Descendants 4?
In Descendants 4, the pivotal prank occurs at the "castlecoming," by Uliana, Uma's aunt, and Ursula's sister. This cruel practical joke is meant to humiliate Bridget, the young Queen of Hearts.
Although the movie centers around Red and Chloe's mission to prevent this prank and its catastrophic consequences, the specifics of what the prank entails are never revealed.
A fan on Twitter, bri_beadle, mentioned:
"Descendants 4 should’ve had a twist that it was cinderella or a hero be the one to pull the big prank on bridget. it could’ve acted as a reason for why bridget becomes a villain cause why would she join the side of the people that ruined her life??"
Another user, sinntsn, said:
"Just saw descendants 4 and I loved itttt, but it really could have benefited from 30 more minutes, the end felt so rushed and I really thought Uliana’s prank would’ve turned out to be a cover for the real prank."
Uliana's role
Uliana, portrayed by Dara Reneé, plays a significant role in the practical joke. She's the mastermind behind the prank at the castlecoming, intended to humiliate Bridget.
Despite her pivotal role, the specifics of her prank are never disclosed. Uliana's plan is thwarted when she and her fellow villains are frozen by a magical book, raising questions about how the prank could have ever occurred.
Theories and speculations
There have been rumors about the prank and its perpetrators. Given the Queen of Hearts' references to two-faced people, Cinderella (Ella) may have been responsible.
This theory complicates the story, but the film offers no solutions. The unresolved prank leaves viewers with more questions than answers.
Read more: Why there should be Descendants 5? Reasons explored
The Queen of Hearts' Transformation
The impact of the prank on Bridget's transformation into the Queen of Hearts is central to the plot. Despite the prank never being revealed, The young Bridget (Ruby Rose Turner) turns to her eventual villainy.
Cast and Characters
The story is brought to life by a talented cast in Descendants 4. Red, the rebellious daughter of the Queen of Hearts, is portrayed by Kylie Cantrall. Chloe Charming, the daughter of Cinderella, is portrayed by Malia Baker.
China Dara Reneé assumes the role of Uliana, while Anne McClain reprises her role as Uma. Ruby Rose Turner portrays the young Bridget, while Rita Ora plays the Queen of Hearts. The ensemble gains star power with the appearance of Brandy as Cinderella.
Read more: Why did the original cast not return for the fourth Descendants film?
Ending and future possibilities
The ending of Descendants 4 leaves the story somewhat open-ended. Despite the unresolved prank, Red and Chloe's mission appears successful as the Queen of Hearts seems reformed when they return to the present.
Uma's final voiceover hints that this isn't the end, suggesting more adventures to come. Disney hasn't announced a production start for Descendants 5, but fans are eager for more.
Despite its unsolved prank mystery, Descendants 4: The Rise of Red is thrilling. The film's friendship, transformation and redemption themes fascinate viewers. Its strong cast, intriguing plot and potential for sequels make it a notable Descendants addition. While the prank is unknown, the film's impact on characters and viewers is undeniable.
Read more: Who is Red's dad in Descendants 4? Everything to know
One can stream this film on Disney+ now.