cinderella
2015 review number 55:
Cinderella: (Family): 80 out of 100: Here is a live-action remake of the popular Disney cartoon from all those years ago and even Walt Disney would be proud of this effort. It has all the ingredients of a family film: well-portrayed characters that you can root for and against; a well-known story which occasionally takes a different path from the original and a feast for the eyes in the form of exquisite production values.
When her father unexpectedly dies after remarrying due to the death of his wife, Ella or Cinderella (Lily James), cruelly nicknamed by her stepsisters, are at the mercy of them and her wicked stepmother (Cate Blanchett). One day she is off riding her horse when she meets a man, unbeknownst to her the prince (Richard Madden) of the kingdom. He is besotted by her beauty and charm so calls upon a ball where he will marry his princess, hoping that Cinderella will make an appearance. Cinderella's adopted family prevents her from going so she will need some help from the Fairy Godmother (Helena Bonham Carter) to get there.
James is ravishing in the role of Cinderella. It's easy to see why the Prince falls for her. Her grace and beauty ensure that she is the perfect choice for Cinderella. Blanchett doesn't go over the top as her stepmother and demonstrates why she is a two time Oscar winner. She has a commanding presence on screen. Madden exhibits style and charisma as the prince even though he is not classically handsome. Bonham Carter's role is brief. You hear more of her as she narrates the story with elegance.
It's a long way off next year's Academy Awards but the sumptuous production design and lavish costumes should come into contention for Oscar nominations. They contribute immensely to the visual feast, along with the bright colours which will bedazzle the youngest of viewers. The cinematography is beautiful, showcasing the striking interiors and exteriors. The music score by Patrick Doyle could also receive a nomination for it's lush and melodious, brilliantly supporting the visuals.
There are some cute moments that the children will enjoy but might be too schmaltzy for adult viewers. The story is faithful to the original animated movie although the scene where Cinderella meets the Prince before the ball is a pleasant change. Kenneth Branagh directs with style and purpose. The ballroom dancing scene utilises the cameras well. It's a long way off his Shakespeare interpretations from the 90s.
"Cinderella" can be enjoyed by adults and children alike. There's never a dull moment, even if you have seen the animated movie numerous times. It's a fresh update which will ensure that the harshest of critics will find something new or different to appreciate.
Starring Cate Blanchett, Lily James, Richard Madden, Stellan Skarsgård and Helena Bonham Carter
(113 minutes)
Additional scene during or after credits: Yes, towards the end of the credits, we hear the Fairy Godmother finish singing Bibbidi-Bobbidi-Boo and after a few seconds she asks, “Where did everyone go?”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=McQ_cCBaiac (Movie trailer)
(Reviewed on Friday 10th April, 2015)
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