On March 13, Disney’s new Cinderella premiered in theaters. This new movie follows the original storyline as seen in the animated Disney Cinderella that first hit theaters in 1950. However, with more modern technology and live actors, the magic becomes more lifelike than ever.
Kenneth Branagh directs a cast of stars in the film. Lily James takes on the role of Cinderella and brings her to life. James can also be seen as Lady Rose in the PBS hit Downton Abbey. The cast of the Cinderella is full of other big names such as Helen Bonham Carter, the fairy godmother, Cate Blanchett, the evil Lady Tremaine, and Richard Madden who plays Prince Charming.
Although the film follows the classic storyline, this new plot is not as cut and dry as it has been before. The conflict is more complicated than good and evil causing the audience to become more invested than previous renditions of the fairy tale. As with any Disney film however, a happy ending is inevitable.
A character who is made unimportant in the 1950 version, plays a crucial role in this modern day movie. Cinderella’s father is seen only in passing the animated film, in this version he is an important part of understanding Cinderella decent to the maid of the house. Disney portrays him as a loving father only wanting the best for Cinderella, in contrast to the lost and thoughtless man he comes across as in the animated version.
Prince Charming has long been portrayed as a character placed in the story simply to fall in love with a random girl he meets at a ball. The prince in this modern reinterpretation has more of a personality and loves Cinderella for who she is, not just how lovely she looks at the ball. He is even given a name in the new movie, Kit, as opposed to being referred to as the prince.
Disney and fairy tales are often associated with little girls and families with young children, however this movie brings the story of Cinderella to a whole new level interesting a much larger audience. It’s enhanced plot and breathtaking costumes capture the audience and does not disappoint.
