IS stardust time. Cinderella, the most famous fairy tale of all time in the 2015 version of Kenneth Branagh, arrives on the notes of Bibbidy, Bobbidy Boo at 21.25, on Rai1.
A live action inspired by the classic tale of Charles Perrault of which the most famous version remains the animated masterpiece of Walt Disney of 1950.
Cinderella, the plot
The fairy tale obviously begins with a: once upon a time there was a beautiful girl named She (Lily James). Lost her beloved father is left alone with her stepmother, Lady Tremaine (Cate Blanchett), and two frivolous stepsisters who constantly mock her: Anastasia (Holliday Grainger) e Drisella (Sophie McShera).
Treated like a servant, covered in ashes and rags, despite a life of abuse She diligently follows the mantra her mother passed on to her: “Have courage and always be kind to others.”
His life suddenly changes when, in a wood, he meets Kit (Richard Madden), a boy in the service of the king who steals her heart. The two, fortunately, they will be able to meet again at the court ball. But participating is not easy. Hindered by her stepmother who tears off her dress for the party, however, she is helped by the easygoing Fairy godmother (Helena Bonham Carter) who turns her dreams into reality.
With a magical touch she creates a refined evening dress, transforms a pumpkin in a carriage pulled by mice turned into horses. Upon reaching the castle she discovers that Kit he is not just any prince, but a charming prince. The same one who will try to find it by following only one clue: one crystal slipper.
A fireworks Cinderella
The film, scripted by Chris Weiz, dusts off the famous cartoon of Disney with some news, but not too much. It is rich in twists and turns, sumptuous dresses, and surprising special effects like Ella’s daring escape from the palace – before the stroke of midnight – complete with a metamorphosis in progress.
Lily James and Cate Blanchett in Cinderella
To give a superlative touch to the production Kenneth Branagh made use of Dante Ferretti for the sets and Sandy Powell for the costumes, including the immense blue dress that Cinderella wears to the ball (made with 1000 Swarovski crystals sewn on 240 meters of fabric).
But he bravely left history as we know it, present every familiar detail of the romantic fairy tale, without adding or deepening other themes. No elements postmodern, female emancipation or feminist messages.
However, some important details change from the Disney version. And without adding spoilers, we leave it to the viewer the pleasure of finding them.
Instead, the fantastic atmospheres, with main characters appearing suspended in mid-air and animal creatures magically transforming into humans. Also She it rotates, dances, as it changes and grows, pushed by one new strength of mind. Protagonist of a timeless story to dream and be enchanted in this magical Christmas.
A kind heroine
Lily James she is a loyal, pure and sensual Cinderella, with her delicate movements and innocent expressions. To make it special it is compassion for others, which saves her from simply being a victim who needs to be saved.
She is a girl who wants to live and love without depending on anyone, who meets a prince but without looking for him, let alone waiting for him.
Despite the unfortunate tight pants, even the Scot, Richard Madden (better known as Robb Stark in Game of Thrones) definitely possesses the regal aspect and the princely smile to play his part.
Cate Blanchett, the fairest villain in the realm
Cate Blanchett enters the scene and catches the eye, cleverly subverts the notion of just bad-stepmother becoming one fabulous she-devil. The film, in fact, delves into the underlying reasons that led her to be like this, making her a more realistic creature.
Cate Blanchett, style icon in “Cinderella”.
It’s impossible to hate her, especially since you can’t wait to see what 1940s-style look she’ll be sporting in the next scene.
Because its treacherous Lady Tremaine, it is first of all a real one Fashion lady.
iO Donna © REPRODUCTION RESERVED