Disney's 'Descendants 2': 5 things to know

What you need to know.

ByABC News
July 19, 2017, 4:04 PM

— -- We are counting down to the premiere of the all new Disney Channel movie “Descendants 2.” If you somehow missed the all-out fandom and mania that followed the first "Descendants" movie when it debuted in 2015, let’s get you into the loop. It’s a story about the exiled children of Disney villains who’ve been offered a chance to live among the heroes. Of course, that’s when things go awry.

Here are five things to know before you watch "Descendants 2":

1. New characters will be introduced

Three new villains have been added to the cast to help stir things up. Disney alum China Anne McClain joins the cast as Uma, Ursula’s daughter. Thomas Doherty will star as Harry, son of Captain Hook. And Dylan Playfair will take on the role of Gil, son of Gaston. Together they bring with them lots of mischief and some great laughs.

PHOTO: Dylan Playfair, China Anne McClain and Thomas Doherty in "Descendants 2."
Dylan Playfair, China Anne McClain and Thomas Doherty in "Descendants 2."

Take a look at the new "Descendants 2" villain kids here:

2. The new songs will get stuck in your head

"Descendants" music videos have amassed more than a billion views already on Disney’s YouTube channels. And now there are several new tunes coming your way in this new film. Be sure to watch out for the performance of “Ways to Be Wicked” and Sofia Carson’s “Chillin’ Like a Villain.”

If there is already a "Descendants" fan in your home, brace yourself for the new tunes to be on regular repeat.

Watch China Anne McClain’s new “What’s My Name” music video here:

3. Everybody dances

In typical Kenny Ortega (the director of "Descendants") fashion, there’s plenty of singing and dancing throughout the film. This time, everybody in the cast dances. Be on the lookout for a big choreographed number that involves lots of water. It's a great one.

PHOTO: The cast of Disney's 'Descendants 2'
The cast of Disney's 'Descendants 2'

4. Some descendants will showcase new skills

Booboo Stewart, who stars as Jay, returns as the son of Jafar in “Descendants 2.” Stewart says he’s especially proud of learning some special moves for the film. Keep an eye out for his action-packed sequences.

PHOTO: Boo Boo Stewart and Dianne Doan in "Descendants 2."
Boo Boo Stewart and Dianne Doan in "Descendants 2."

Take a sneak peek at some of the cast members honing their new skills:

5. Ortega has the magic touch

Ortega has been creating rousing musical productions for years. Not only did he direct the first “Descendants” movie, he’s also the creative force behind the "High School Musical" series and "This Is It."

PHOTO: The cast of Disney's "Descendants 2."
The cast of Disney's "Descendants 2."

“Descendants 2” premieres Friday at 8 p.m. ET simultaneously on five networks -- the Disney Channel, ABC, Disney XD, Freeform and Lifetime. The premiere will be followed by "Descendants 2: ABC After-Party," airing Friday, July 21, at 10:30 p.m. ET on ABC.

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