Review of Cinderella (2013) by Ranny L — 27 May 2015

Breathtaking. This new and improved version of the beloved fairy tale reminds audiences that there is still magic in the world. Ella (Lilly James) lives with her wicked step-mother (Cate Blanchett) and her daughters. She wants to go to the ball so she can reunite with "Kit" aka Prince Charming (Richard Madden). She does this with a little help from her fairy Godmother (Helena Bonham Carter).

There have been many versions of this story and I believe most of us know it by heart. With that said, the film brings innovative contributions to the story. We learn more about Ella as a person and the struggles she goes through. More is explained about the motivation of the step mother. Even the Prince is given a story arc of his own. Because of this. the characters and their relationships are stronger. The filmmakers took this fairy tale we all know and added new aspects to the story that audiences can experience and enjoy.

The special effects and costumes are the highlight of the film. These are visuals that only the magic of Disney can conjure. You are transported into th fairy tale. The best scene that shows off these phenomenal effects is the scene with Ella and her Fairy Godmother preparing her for the ball. It's simply gorgeous from the mice turning into horses to the pumpkin transformation into the carriage. Fun Fact: In the original Cinderella movie, the transition of Cinderella into her dress was Walt Disney's favorite piece of animation sequence ever to be put to paper. If he was alive today to see the transformation in this film, he would be speechless. Costumes like Ella's dress and glass slipper are enchanting. I adore the little touches like the butterflies clinging onto the dress.

My favorite character is Lady Tremaine, Ella's wicked step mother. With a character so cruel, you need an actress who can pull it off. Enters Blanchett and her sinful performance. A good villain is a character you hate and yet love. She is one of those villains. With her evil smile and her corrupt laugh, you can tell she is having fun with the role. Also, like the other characters, she has a well developed story arc. You have more of an understanding why this character is mean to Ella, even if you don't agree with her.

Moral of the story is "have courage and be kind." These are the words that Ella's mother shares on her death bed and Ella lives by. Throughout this movie, Ella experiences a lot of anguish such as loosing loved ones and having her step mother treat her like a servant. However Ella never forgets those words. She does cry and mourn, like any human being, but she never becomes bitter.

I give this 5 out of 5 pumpkins and recommend this to 4 through 18-year-olds. It's perfect for the whole family to adore. This film is proof that Disney has not lost its touch bringing magic to the big screen. In theaters now.

Reviewed by Keefer C.B. KIDSFIRST! Film Critic. For more reviews by youth go to kidsfirst dot org.