BeautifulBallad Reviews Cinderella
Disney’s live-action Cinderella starring Cate Blanchett, Lily James and Richard Madden is simply delightful. The re-imagining of perhaps Walt Disney’s most iconic fairytale is charming from start to finish.
James plays Ella, the young woman who, after her father’s untimely passing, is forced to work as a maid by her wicked step-mother. Blanchett is deliciously evil as Lady Tremaine and the perfect contrast to the guileless, ingénue Ella (James). One morning Ella’s cruel step-sisters nickname her Cinderella prompting her to flee to the woods where she meets her future prince, played by Richard Madden.
Madden is dashing as the Prince who is conflicted between marrying for love and marrying to please his ailing father. After Cinderella and the prince’s chance run in, the prince is determined to wed for more than political gain. To appease his father, and possibly reunite with the young woman from the forest, the prince decrees every available maiden attend the palace ball.
Despite her best effort, Cinderella is thwarted by her immoral step-mother and step-sisters in her attempts to attend the ball. Magic prevails when Cinderella’s fairy godmother (Helena Bonham Carter) appears to make Cinderella’s dream come true, at least for a night.
The live-action version sticks close to Disney’s classic animated film but there are slight, welcome additions. The score enhances and bolsters the film as this version does not feature any musical numbers (look to the credits for some of that!). The costumes were enchanting throughout from Cinderella’s dress and slippers for the ball to every outfit worn by Lady Tremaine. And the inclusion of several animals featured in the animated version is a welcome surprise.
As in the iconic animated film, Cinderella and her prince have their happy ending and audiences will, too. This live-action version of a beloved animated flick is right on the money. An excellent cast mixed with a bit of humor, plenty of charm, and a touch of magic creates a wonderful film everyone can enjoy.
Grade A
Photo Source: Walt Disney Pictures