The story of Cinderella is the ultimate ‘happily ever after,’ and while it’s hard to beat the original—still popular 65 years later—this year’s version is worth seeing. The film follows the classic storyline, but with some changes in an obvious effort to make it fresh and less predictable. The fairy godmother (Helena Bonham Carter) is not the typical ‘good witch’ type, which is a welcome switch. Her role could have provided more laughs though, as her portrayal is so ho-hum it is distracting. This version delves more into Cinderella’s (Lily James) childhood and how she is gradually transformed into a servant of her cruel stepmother (Cate Blanchett) and two unattractive (in every sense of the word) stepsisters. Blanchett stole the show; her portrayal of the jealous, downright wicked Lady Tremaine elicits disgust, all the while appearing in gowns much more stunning than Cinderella’s ball gown. Overall, the message of the movie—have courage and be kind—is a good one for impressionable kids (and adults!). And any non-animated movie that can keep the attention of two kids under the age of 7 has done something right.
Should You See It? Yes.
Viewed at Des Peres 14 Cine
