Ever After (1998)
Genre: Romance/ Drama
Time: 2h
Director: Andy Tennant
Quick Summary: The Brothers Grimm arrive at the home of a wealthy Grande Dame who speaks of the many legends surrounding the fable of the cinder girl before telling the "true" story of her ancestor.
As a fairytale, this movie follows a predictable pattern and storyline. It is sweet, light, innocent and beautiful.
This movie is most definitely not a retelling of the Cinderella story. It has aspects of that, the basic plotline, but a twist all its own. I really liked how realistic this was. Especially the landscapes, they were honestly so pretty and made this movie magical in its own way. Set in 16th-century France, is somewhat historically accurate. Obviously, it's not 100%, as why would they for a Cinderella story.
One thing I really appreciated was that The prince and Cinderella actually developed a romance before the ball. Another thing is the characters are so well written and portrayed. Everyone is given a full personality Drew Barrymore vies us a stunning performance as Cinderella. Her emotions are raw and realistic and she gives plenty to the character. I'm glad she didn't fall into the normal portrayal and a mousey Cinderella and gave charm and a real feisty personality. Even the stepfamily, while still wicked, is given much more dimension here and more realistic motivations.
There is a couple of different plot lines that go on throughout the film so It can become a little muddled halfway, especially if you aren't paying attention. The script can be a little off-putting as well, as it is super corner and over the top, but I actually really liked it. A lot of the time it came out with really witty and snappy jokes.
Even though it has plenty of positives, the pacing and length I found to be too long. I found myself getting bored of some scenes and that I was waiting for something else to happen.
I do think this is one of the better Cinderella adaptations, although it might not be for everyone since it lacks the fantasy department that these usually have.
A Review From A Friend:
"The problem with ever after is it's a bland retelling of a story we all already know. So bland that despite not being in the movie I think? The fairy godmother put a sleep spell on me.
The best part of the movie is easily when Daniel or whatever her name is a child and she is covered in poo and as a grown woman when she assaults another woman. Why are those the best parts? Funny mate.
Most of the movie I pondered how old the characters are meant to be. Our main lead looks 18 and her love interest 40, her sisters look 14 and 30.
It's just a boring movie overall in my opinion and there's much better romance stories and better Cinderella adaptions."
9/10
"Forgive me, Your Highness, I did not see you.
Your aim would suggest otherwise."
"You cannot leave everything to fate, boy. She's got a lot to do. Sometimes you must give her a hand."
You're too kind with a 9.
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