Movie Review: Disney's Cinderella 2015

Before I get into my first review I would like to say “Thank-You!” to Devin Petch and the Famous Players 6 Theater for sponsoring my new work. I look forward to working with you as I learn and grow.

The Cinderella movie is based on the Disney animated classic that I grew up with. The story takes place at the edge of a forest where Cinderella’s family lives. Cinderella’s father was a merchant and her mother took care of her while he was gone. While Cinderella is still young, her mother gets sick and utters her last words to Cinderella; “Have courage, and be kind.” Years later, her father marries the evil stepmother. This was a great pre-story to the original version and it gives context to why Cinderella puts up with so many harsh things from her family.

 Soon after, her father has to go sell things for money and Cinderella asks him for the first branch that touches his shoulder. It has emotional attachment as it represents her going with him and him coming back her. Soon after, her father dies and the farmer brings home the branch. This irritates me because I have the brothers Grimm story and the branch has purpose in that story. In this movie, this is the only time you see the branch and I would like to see it bring in what the original story had.

As we all know this is the point where the classic animation begins, Cinderella working as a servant in her own home and taking care of her Stepmother and Sisters. I have to say I liked the addition to the story where she gets so sad and upset about her treatment that she rides out to the forest on her horse. This is where I feel Disney made the story of the Prince and Cinderella have a good story beginning.

From here the story follows along the lines of the Disney classic with some great add in’s that make the story more full and real. I have to say I really enjoyed the way the writers made this story into one that could be possible and yet maintain its magic. The actor did an incredible job and I especially enjoyed Cate Blanchett as the evil stepmother and Helena Bonham Carter as the fairy godmother. I also think Lily James truly brought Cinderella to life keeping true to her kindness and bringing a wonderful sense of strength.

Be prepared for new heart breaks and unexpected villains. I thoroughly enjoyed this new take on the original classic. I like the added touches of the brothers Grimm fairy tale but disappointed they didn’t bring more in.

I would also like to give props to the costuming department for their stunning work and the amazing ball dress. I wished it had been a lighter blue but it was still beautiful and magical. Little fact about the dress it included 11 thousand crystals and 3 miles of fabric.

As a bonus to the movie Cinderella, I would like to tell you that there is a Frozen short called Frozen Fever. It’s pretty funny and it takes place on Anna’s birthday. It was a great lead into the movie. Any Disney princess fan will love the combination of a classic princess combined with this latest modern princess.

I would say over all this is a really enjoyable movie and I look forward to taking my sister to it. 

I give it the rating of 8.6/10

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