Review of Cruella (2021) by Tarekali — 29 May 2021

Disney has mastered the art of retconning and reinventing villains we previously wrote off as the treacherous scum of the earth. Cruella is no exception, taking us on a painful winding journey of a young girl lost in the world, struggling with her inner demon and trying to choose a path in life.

The question of nurture versus nature is explored deeply in this absolutely brilliant movie. Emma Stone was born for this role. She displays incredible depth and range, a woman struggling with her involuntary past at the edge of controlled madness.

Emma Thompson as usual plays her role flawlessly, giving a chilling portrayal of mental illness. Mark Strong of course delivers a calm, reassuring rock of strength in an ocean of chaos. The casting of this movie is brilliant.

The fashion aesthetics of this movie are truly exemplary. Every single outfit and ensemble is classy and well placed for the period and the moment. I did not think there would be a worthy successor to ‘The Devil wears Prada’ but here we are.

Hilarious moments and hijinks, and the constant battle of stealing the spotlight in crafty, shocking ways, keeps this pretty long movie clipping along. The soundtrack selection was spot on, each song was well placed for the era and scene.

Immersing Cruella’s journey in the glorious decades of London life from the 60’s onwards, especially the punk era, adds a genuine anchor to the tale. Even though the after credits scene seems to imply a direct transition to beloved cartoons of yore, I would venture to say we should have a sequel within this microcosm.