538 reviews
Sure it's still got some of the dated gooey-ness of the original movie, sure Shrek's impact on savaging the Disney/fairy-tale formula can still be felt years after release, but Cinderella is a beautifully directed and cinematographed; and Kenneth Branagh did this?
Why do films like this exist in today's industry? Well franchising for one thing, and even though films like this are basically products in Disney's pipeline it CAN be well done given that the movie's got a determined director at the helm. And oddly, Branagh, the guy who directed films such as 1996's Hamlet, was just the guy to make Cinderella into a watchable film. It's pretty, has a good cast and has some nice tid-bits of humor here and there. And it's an update on the whole Disney-esque 'happily ever after' thing. Yes the story's the same but it gives some much-needed chemistry to Cinderella's and 'The Prince''s romantic charm. And... it works.
You don't need to be a girl or a gay to like this film; just see it for what it is: a harmless remake of an animation from the 1950s.
Why do films like this exist in today's industry? Well franchising for one thing, and even though films like this are basically products in Disney's pipeline it CAN be well done given that the movie's got a determined director at the helm. And oddly, Branagh, the guy who directed films such as 1996's Hamlet, was just the guy to make Cinderella into a watchable film. It's pretty, has a good cast and has some nice tid-bits of humor here and there. And it's an update on the whole Disney-esque 'happily ever after' thing. Yes the story's the same but it gives some much-needed chemistry to Cinderella's and 'The Prince''s romantic charm. And... it works.
You don't need to be a girl or a gay to like this film; just see it for what it is: a harmless remake of an animation from the 1950s.
- Johnny-the-Film-Sentinel-2187
- Mar 28, 2017
- Permalink
I don't understand what people expect out a Disney remake of Cinderella. The movie sticks to the story and core ideas of the original. Cinderella was written has a fairytale story and that's exactly what the movie conveys. THIS IS A PERFECT MODERN REMAKE OF THE CLASSIC FAIRYTALE STORY CINDERELLA. And I absolutely enjoyed it.
- shakthi-82794
- Jul 8, 2020
- Permalink
This movie has been very poorly understood by the public. Unlike previous films, which seek to rewrite traditional fairy tales or watch them from new perspectives ("Maleficent", "Ever After", or even the animations "Brave" or "Tangled"), this film is the live-action version of the fairy tale in its more traditional version. Therefore, we know the whole story and very little has been changed or added. Any problem? Not for me. I usually like original versions more than any contemporary re-interpretations, but it seems that fairy tales have gone out of style.
One of the criticisms I saw was the Cinderella's passive attitude: the girl was educated under values of kindness and generosity (something our current society no longer knows) and isn't willing to abdicate these principles in adversity. Maybe she think that would betray her mother's memory. For our society, which treats the dead as unknown and the living even worse, such submission and servitude is unacceptable! The oppressed must revolt! Cinderella shouldn't serve the tea, she should take that teapot and stick it in her stepmother's throat! Or should she kick her feet and whine, saying "I don't do it, I'm sick of it"? If you are reading this and you're also think that Cinderella should revolt, then you're one more who has totally forgotten what a fairy tale is. A fairy tale is not about reality or what we do. It's about moral values and what we should do. And the moral teaching conveyed by this tale is that biblical passage "turn the other cheek", that you must have heard in Sunday School if you have frequented it. Cinderella's tale is entirely about this! She had the courage to silently endure her suffering and to forgive those who hurt her and, in the end, her reward was to fall in love with a prince and change her life. Her stepmother's punishment didn't delay: she ended up punished, but not by the person she most offended. Moral of the story: love your enemy and forgive, you will have the reward, sooner or later.
Well, the movie is great and is absolutely true to the original fairy tale, including with regard to costumes and sets, which are beautiful. Unfortunately, CGI is too obvious. I would have preferred realistic sets in proper locations rather than the green screen, which should be used with more caution. I have seen some criticism about the large neckline of Cinderella's dress but, in the historical period in which the tale was set (19th century), the ball dress were usually very low-cut. But don't complain! We see women with even fewer clothes on our streets today and we find it natural! Lily James and Cate Blanchett are the main actresses of the film and it is their work (as stepmother and stepdaughter) that supports the whole plot. Blanchett, unsurprisingly, shone with her usual charm, and the veiled but venomous malice she had bestowed on her character. James is an actress I didn't know but I liked to see, having done her work quite well. It's a young actress, surely this movie isn't going to be the movie of her life, but she left a promise of talent that may come to blossom. Helena Bonham Carter and Stellan Skarsgård also enter the film in supporting roles that their talent makes it seem easy.
This movie will easily please all those who want to watch a movie with the original Cinderella story. It's absolutely the same as the book our grandparents used to delight our childhoods. However, if you've gotten tired of it and prefer a modern version of the story this movie is not for you.
One of the criticisms I saw was the Cinderella's passive attitude: the girl was educated under values of kindness and generosity (something our current society no longer knows) and isn't willing to abdicate these principles in adversity. Maybe she think that would betray her mother's memory. For our society, which treats the dead as unknown and the living even worse, such submission and servitude is unacceptable! The oppressed must revolt! Cinderella shouldn't serve the tea, she should take that teapot and stick it in her stepmother's throat! Or should she kick her feet and whine, saying "I don't do it, I'm sick of it"? If you are reading this and you're also think that Cinderella should revolt, then you're one more who has totally forgotten what a fairy tale is. A fairy tale is not about reality or what we do. It's about moral values and what we should do. And the moral teaching conveyed by this tale is that biblical passage "turn the other cheek", that you must have heard in Sunday School if you have frequented it. Cinderella's tale is entirely about this! She had the courage to silently endure her suffering and to forgive those who hurt her and, in the end, her reward was to fall in love with a prince and change her life. Her stepmother's punishment didn't delay: she ended up punished, but not by the person she most offended. Moral of the story: love your enemy and forgive, you will have the reward, sooner or later.
Well, the movie is great and is absolutely true to the original fairy tale, including with regard to costumes and sets, which are beautiful. Unfortunately, CGI is too obvious. I would have preferred realistic sets in proper locations rather than the green screen, which should be used with more caution. I have seen some criticism about the large neckline of Cinderella's dress but, in the historical period in which the tale was set (19th century), the ball dress were usually very low-cut. But don't complain! We see women with even fewer clothes on our streets today and we find it natural! Lily James and Cate Blanchett are the main actresses of the film and it is their work (as stepmother and stepdaughter) that supports the whole plot. Blanchett, unsurprisingly, shone with her usual charm, and the veiled but venomous malice she had bestowed on her character. James is an actress I didn't know but I liked to see, having done her work quite well. It's a young actress, surely this movie isn't going to be the movie of her life, but she left a promise of talent that may come to blossom. Helena Bonham Carter and Stellan Skarsgård also enter the film in supporting roles that their talent makes it seem easy.
This movie will easily please all those who want to watch a movie with the original Cinderella story. It's absolutely the same as the book our grandparents used to delight our childhoods. However, if you've gotten tired of it and prefer a modern version of the story this movie is not for you.
- filipemanuelneto
- Mar 14, 2017
- Permalink
This was well casted and I loved the visual effects of it. The infamous transformation was perfection. I wished there was more Fairy Godmother (Helena Bonham Carter) as she was expectedly fabulous, but her part was disappointingly short.
The story is still an old story, beautifully dreamy, fashion design and art director praise, Cinderella transformation and dancing two scenes are too beautiful. Blanchett really steals the show, Lily James is also quite cute, Helena has less drama, but what other fairy godmother is as interesting as her.
Beautiful costumes, romantic love stories, whether in animation or live action, fairy tales are always full of charm, especially the story of Cinderella's crystal shoes. Although the story has no particularly new ideas and surprises, I still like it.
... of all the Disney Live action movies and of all the retellings of the Cinderella story.
- twilightreader100
- Jun 19, 2020
- Permalink
A re-adaptation of the fairy tale that everyone everyone knows well. The film showed fidelity to its own Disney-produced original in question. Highly skilled actors and an engaging plot, they were companies with intriguing special effects and a magical staging full of life and with almost unique features.
Film reviewed on the 28th to the 29th of August 2021.
Film reviewed on the 28th to the 29th of August 2021.
- mfellipecampos
- Aug 28, 2021
- Permalink
This movie is just magical! The message of the movie genuinely touched my heart and spirit, it was breathtakingly gorgeous! The colors, the cinematography, the costumes just wow and love the music! The only thing i would change is i would love it more if there's singing..Lily James have a very sweet mezzo soprano voice i love her singing "A Dream is a Wish" at the end of the movie. And yes The acting was so good i cried like so many times..my fave was Prince Kit and the King's scene,Lily crying when her dress was ripped and the first dance oh god it was magic! and the gown transformation was so epic! The lead actors chemistry is so strong.. i fell in love with them. This movie is so uplifting makes me do kind deeds every time! People saying it was boring have a heart of stone for real. This is Amazing and i can't wait for Beauty and The Beast.. Well done Disney!💙😘💋
- cecilecanonigo
- Nov 20, 2016
- Permalink
I didn't know this movie existed until recently.. and what a pleasant surprise! From the great casting (and each and everyone one of their lovely portrayals, expressions and interactions), to the colors, clothing, sets, music, locations and developments.
After every photorealistic disappointment from Disney since Alice in Wonderland (2010), to find a lovely adaptation of the original that isn't flat or insulting and with a damn good script as a foundation! That is to say, that if you are going to remake these movies, at least make them "good".. not worse (like they did Maleficent, Aladdin and the Lion King amongst others).
This has a fresh and lovely start. The family setting of fair standing, with a context of love and caring relationships, followed by loss and moving on. It feels different.. although if you've seen Ella Enchanted from 2004, you'd probably say I'm very mistaken. Still, the direction it takes gives you uncertainty of its development. Almost everything is more realistic. That is, until it doesn't.. for a moment. Personally, I feel this story would have been perfect had it kept its course with some elements left out. While still good, my expectations for it begot higher expectations. You'd have to see it to understand.. the way it unravels feels known but unique.
Still, I wasn't disappointed. It feels magical and lovely still. I particularly enjoyed Richard, and therefore his interactions with Lily (both leads). And every other character isn't underwritten or annoying or wasted. It's hard to find consistency, and for everything displayed to matter.
Easy recommendation for any Disney fan.. specially for those disillusioned with what we've gotten as of late.
After every photorealistic disappointment from Disney since Alice in Wonderland (2010), to find a lovely adaptation of the original that isn't flat or insulting and with a damn good script as a foundation! That is to say, that if you are going to remake these movies, at least make them "good".. not worse (like they did Maleficent, Aladdin and the Lion King amongst others).
This has a fresh and lovely start. The family setting of fair standing, with a context of love and caring relationships, followed by loss and moving on. It feels different.. although if you've seen Ella Enchanted from 2004, you'd probably say I'm very mistaken. Still, the direction it takes gives you uncertainty of its development. Almost everything is more realistic. That is, until it doesn't.. for a moment. Personally, I feel this story would have been perfect had it kept its course with some elements left out. While still good, my expectations for it begot higher expectations. You'd have to see it to understand.. the way it unravels feels known but unique.
Still, I wasn't disappointed. It feels magical and lovely still. I particularly enjoyed Richard, and therefore his interactions with Lily (both leads). And every other character isn't underwritten or annoying or wasted. It's hard to find consistency, and for everything displayed to matter.
Easy recommendation for any Disney fan.. specially for those disillusioned with what we've gotten as of late.
- daisukereds
- Jul 13, 2021
- Permalink
Non-musical elaboration of the familiar fairy tale is (at times) teeth-achingly sweet, while remaining unapologetically sincere, warm, & fun. Blanchett chews just the right amount of scenery & James is pure innocence personified. #nitrosMovieChallenge.
- StregaAsuka
- Dec 17, 2018
- Permalink
I believe its fair to say that when referring to the classic princess fairytale films, there's only one metric you need to measure, is it swoon worthy? And boy does this one do the trick. A world where good will always prevail, where one only marries for love, what's not to love?
Why isn't this a solid 10 then you may ask. Well it's because there's nothing really impressive about it. This film is great, but far from perfect. With few but glaring oddities (infrequent awkward dialogue and weird camera angles) a 10 is more than its worth. But hey, chances are if you're watching a Disney Princess film, you're not there to critique the film but just want a feel good film to melt thy hearts. So for that, it's a solid 10.
Why isn't this a solid 10 then you may ask. Well it's because there's nothing really impressive about it. This film is great, but far from perfect. With few but glaring oddities (infrequent awkward dialogue and weird camera angles) a 10 is more than its worth. But hey, chances are if you're watching a Disney Princess film, you're not there to critique the film but just want a feel good film to melt thy hearts. So for that, it's a solid 10.
- AscendeSuperius
- Jan 30, 2022
- Permalink
- Magow-Intermean
- Apr 6, 2019
- Permalink
First of all, Lily James was awesome! Wicked Cate Blanchet damn. Probably one of the best adaptation of disney classic.
- andrewchristianjr
- Aug 9, 2019
- Permalink
As a girl, all the childhood fantasies of princesses, all the glittering and beaded aspirations, were like stars on a blue dress, all starting with the magic words of the fairy godmother, "bibbidi-bobbidi-boo." I have seen the story of Cinderella in my childhood. It is simple and beautiful. I believe that good and evil will be rewarded. Many years later, the girl has become a mother, with her daughter to experience this dream country, warm and wonderful. Beautiful castle, good comely rilla, evil snobbish stepmother, silly and naughty sisters, ancient fairy godmother, handsome and elegant prince, beautiful princess dress and glass shoes, golden and magnificent pumpkin car... When I saw the words of the past leap out of the paper, and become three-dimensional and full of imagination, I also like a moment back to childhood, intoxicated in the fairy tale world.
- zeekwunlau
- Mar 22, 2020
- Permalink
Love this film! no it is not like the original but it is great in it's own way! The prince is more developed as a character, the step-mother is still great, and Cinderella is great too. I think this Cinderella is more quiet and with that a quiet beauty and strength comes through her and it really shines. I love this movie and I will always love to watch this one and the original one.
Despite removing original elements such as the (character of the) mice & songs, Cinderella manages to ground itself as a thoroughly enjoyable remake. Adding a whole new segment of her early life and multiple scenes of the Prince with his Captain (best friend), and other alternations this remake also features a fantastic cast that help elevate the original material.
- ChrisJMorg
- Aug 2, 2019
- Permalink
This is hands down THE best live action remake they have made so far. The dress is amazing! Perfect casting! Just beautifully done, even my mom loved it, and she is a harsh critic. Soooo much better than the 2021 Cinderella that just came out. This movie is top tier for Disney remakes.
Cinderella is one of the stories that little girls all over the world often hear in their childhood. It can be said that the movie basically restored the story on the basis of the fairy tale, from the casting to the scenes, costumes I think are satisfactory, a childhood dream is fulfilled. By the way, Disney's female villains are more stunning than each other.
- dixonbixon
- Mar 13, 2015
- Permalink
Astonishingly, Cinderella is a good remake. The changes to the original are so minimum but they add something like personality to the Prince Charming.
The acting is reasonably excellent, and the visuals are as spectacular as Disney can do. The casting is on point for this movie, every one fit their role perfectly.
Evidently this movie isn't a 10 because the second time you tell a story isn't as impactful as the first. The film just play safe by not being too risky so it's merely entertaining.
The acting is reasonably excellent, and the visuals are as spectacular as Disney can do. The casting is on point for this movie, every one fit their role perfectly.
Evidently this movie isn't a 10 because the second time you tell a story isn't as impactful as the first. The film just play safe by not being too risky so it's merely entertaining.
- edicionccq
- Nov 20, 2019
- Permalink
Glittering skirts and crystal shoes, these things in the girl's dream, were moved to reality by Disney, the film made a beautiful dream come true.