Cinderella

Based on Charles Perrault's 1697 Cendrillon, or the History of the Glass Slipper, this elegant, enchanting live-action extravaganza re-imagines the classic romantic folk tale for the 21st century. As the story begins, 10-year-old Ella (Eloise Webb) is living happily with her merchant father (Ben Chaplin) and devoted mother (Hayley Atwell), who urges her to “have courage and be kind.” Years later, following her mother's death, Ella's father marries haughty, mean-spirited Lady Tremaine (Cate Blanchett), a woman with two vain daughters (Sophie McShera, Holliday Grainger). After the father dies on a business trip, now-grown Ella (Lily James) is treated like a scullery maid and banished to the attic. But she doesn't lack self-esteem, as evidenced by her chance encounter with Prince Kit (Richard Madden) in the forest. Eager to see his son married, the ailing King (Derek Jacobi) hosts a ball, inviting all eligible women in the land. But the only way Ella can attend is with the help of her Fairy Godmother (Helena Bonham Carter), who weaves the necessary magic. There will be a fantastical pumpkin coach, glistening glass slippers, and a frantic flight at the stroke of midnight—with the Prince in dogged pursuit. A faithful adaptation, ably directed by Kenneth Branagh, this Cinderella emphasizes the importance of courage, kindness—and forgiveness. Recommended. [Note: DVD/Blu-ray extras include the theatrical short “Frozen Fever” (8 min.), a segment on “Ella's Furry Friends” (4 min.), and trailers. Exclusive to the Blu-ray release are the production featurettes “Staging the Ball” (12 min.), “A Fairy Tale Comes to Life” (9 min.), and “Costume Test Fun” (3 min.), as well as an alternate opening (3 min.), and bonus DVD and digital copies of the film. Bottom line: a solid extras package for a lovely live-action Cinderella tale.] (S. Granger)