Three out of five
MOVIE REVIEW
BY KAYLEE BREWSTER
For some, “Cinderella” will bring back the magic of their childhood. For others, it will be the start of a childhood full of magic.
What really works for “Cinderella” is it manages to keep much of the story the same, but adds just enough to not be boring.
That gives an extra layer to the characters. Everyone from Cinderella (Lily James), the evil stepmother (Cate Blanchett) and the prince (Richard Madden) have more reasons for their actions rather than fairy-tale explanations.
And the cast couldn’t be more ideal. Blanchett’s evil stepmother is delightfully wicked and cruel. Madden is the ever-so-charming prince. Not a person is miscast and they all play their part to perfection.
Especially James. She has Cinderella down: looks, kindness, courage and compassion. Her smile could melt the coldest heart. She feels like a real person, even though it’s hard to believe someone could be that good.
“Cinderella” doesn’t just have a beautiful protagonist, but it’s also beautifully filmed. The sets are stunning. Cinderella’s home changes from attractive and bright to drab and dreary to reflect the circumstances of her life. The palace where the prince lives is staggeringly huge and ornate.
Costumes are extravagant and, in most cases, reflect the look of Disney’s 1950 “Cinderella.” Obviously where the costumes really stand out is at the ball, with special attention to our leading lady’s dress and shinning glass slippers.
Director Kenneth Branagh shows all these characters, sets and costumes with sweeping cinematography and special effects. Cameras swoop into the palace and down on to the dancing ball attendees and spins with Cinderella. The transformation of the pumpkin, lizards, mice, goose and Cinderella herself will make anyone believe in magic. Or at least the magic of Disney.
That is the movie’s greatest quality. It brings back that child-like sense of wonder and magic that is classic Disney.
Yes, “Cinderella” is still the same old story, but it manages to feel fresh and entertaining, even if a few scenes run a little long. It’s a movie for the whole family, but one the family could enjoy just as well at home.
[embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=McQ_cCBaiac[/embed]
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Brewster can be reached at (208) 848-2238 or by email at kbrewster@lmtribune.com.
