- Story
- Picture & Sound
- Bonus Features
Now available on Blu-ray/DVD combo-pack and HD Digital is the 2015 live-action version of Disney’s Cinderella.
Admittedly, when I first heard that Disney was making a live-action version of its 1950 animated classic, my first thought was “why does Hollywood feel the need to keep remaking movies?” After seeing it, however, I soon realized this wasn’t a remake. Director Kenneth Branagh’s film lacks a lot that would classify this as a rip-off of the animated tale. For starters, it’s not a musical. As a matter of fact, none of the original compositions from Disney’s animated tale are even remotely represented in this version. Something like that removes the blinders and lends new perspective to the fairy tale.
While it’s true that there are still characters that pay tribute to the Disney classic, these characters stand alone. Cinderella’s Prince, or “Kip”, isn’t two-dimensional. He actually has a fully developed character that makes you care about why he and Ella should be together. Ella’s stepsisters aren’t ugly either. At least, not on the outside. Cate Blanchett did a wonderful job of bringing Ella’s stepmother to life and Lily James did a wonderful job in the lead role.
I really wanted to dislike this movie for what it was, but that was really before I knew it. Sure, it’s not the greatest film ever, but in true Disney fashion it’s a fairy-tale fit for the entire family.
The bonus features didn’t really take too long to watch either. Unlike a lot of releases these days, it wasn’t overdone with a lot of unnecessary additions.
With a PG rating, it’s definitely appropriate for a family movie night.
Film Synopsis:
Celebrate Disney’s “Cinderella,” a modern classic that shines with beauty, imagination…and magic! Despite being mistreated by her stepmother (Cate Blanchett) and stepsisters, a spirited Ella (Lily James) resolves to take charge of her fate. Add a royal ball, a Fairy Godmother (Helena Bonham-Carter) and a glass slipper, and suddenly – magic becomes reality!
Main Cast:
Stepmother – Cate Blanchett
Cinderella – Lily James
Prince/Kip – Richard Madden
Grand Duke – Stellan Skarsgård
Anastasia – Holliday Grainger
Drisella – Sophie McShera
Faily Godmother – Helena Bonham Carter
Rated: PG
Run Time: 105 minutes
Bonus Features:
A Fairy Tale Comes to Life
Filmmakers and cast reflect on Cinderella’s enduring power, and the joys and challenges of bringing this iconic tale to life.
Costume Test Fun
See the work of Academy Award-winning® Costume Designer Sandy Powell (The Aviator, 2004) and share some lighthearted moments with the cast.
Staging The Ball
You’re invited behind the scenes for the making of the Palace Ball sequence, including its spectacular set, stunning costumes and more. It’s a lavish and massive undertaking…and a magical day on set.
Ella’s Furry Friends
Discover how the movie’s animal stars honed their memorable performances.
Alternate Opening: Ella’s Childhood
View moments from Ella’s idyllic childhood that do not appear in the movie. With an introduction by Director Kenneth Branagh.
Frozen Fever
It’s Anna’s birthday, and Elsa and Kristoff are determined to give her the best celebration ever – but when Elsa catches a cold, her powers may put more than just the party at risk.
