**Cinderella 2015**
The timeless tale of _Cinderella_ has been retold countless times, but in 2021, a modern, musical adaptation brought a fresh twist to this beloved story. Directed by Kay Cannon, _Cinderella_ reimagines the classic narrative with a focus on empowerment, ambition, and independence. This new version not only retains the magical charm of the original story but also adds contemporary elements that appeal to today’s audiences, making it stand out from previous adaptations.
_The 2021 Cinderella_ tells the story of Ella (Camila Cabello), a young woman living under the oppressive rule of her stepmother, Vivian (Idina Menzel), and her two stepsisters, Malvolia (Maddie Baillio) and Narissa (Charlotte Spencer). While Ella is still the same hardworking and kind-hearted character we know, she is not waiting to be rescued by a prince. Instead, she dreams of becoming a successful fashion designer and owning her own dress shop.
Ella’s life changes when Prince Robert (Nicholas Galitzine) announces a grand ball to find a future wife. However, in this version, Ella is less interested in love and more focused on seizing an opportunity to showcase her designs to the wealthy attendees at the ball. With the help of her Fab G (Billy Porter), a gender-neutral fairy godparent, Ella is magically transformed for the night and attends the ball, setting the stage for her ultimate success and self-discovery.
**Ella (Cinderella)**: Camila Cabello brings a modern, independent spirit to the role of Cinderella. Unlike the traditional Cinderella who dreams of being rescued from her hardships, this version of Ella dreams of success on her own terms. She’s ambitious, passionate about her craft, and determined to make a name for herself. Her character is a refreshing departure from the typical “damsel in distress” trope, as she navigates her own path while staying true to her kind and optimistic nature.
**Prince Robert**: Played by Nicholas Galitzine, Prince Robert is more than just a charming royal looking for love. In this adaptation, he’s grappling with his own identity and role in the kingdom. He questions the pressure to marry for political reasons and seeks a partner who can challenge and inspire him. His connection with Ella is built on mutual respect and shared ambitions rather than the traditional fairytale romance.
**Vivian (The Stepmother)**: Idina Menzel’s portrayal of Vivian adds layers to the classic villainous role. While she’s still tough and unsupportive of Ella’s dreams, this version of the stepmother is driven by her own failed ambitions. She tries to mold Ella into her view of what a woman’s role should be, but her character is given more depth as someone who believes she’s protecting Ella from the hardships she faced in her own life.
**Fab G (Fairy Godparent)**: The introduction of Fab G, played by the fabulous Billy Porter, is one of the standout elements of this film. Breaking away from the traditional fairy godmother, Fab G is a stylish, gender-fluid character who encourages Ella to embrace her individuality. Fab G’s magical transformation of Ella is both visually spectacular and empowering, symbolizing the importance of self-confidence and inner strength.
Unlike previous _Cinderella_ adaptations, this version focuses heavily on empowerment and independence. Ella’s ambition to become a successful businesswoman takes center stage, and the story emphasizes her desire to achieve her dreams through her own hard work and determination, rather than relying on a prince to save her.
The film’s feminist undertones are evident throughout, especially in its portrayal of gender roles and expectations. Both Ella and Prince Robert are characters who resist societal pressures to conform, choosing instead to follow their own paths. This is a significant shift from the traditional fairytale narrative where marriage is the ultimate goal for the female lead.
Another important theme is self-expression. Ella’s passion for fashion and design is more than just a hobby; it’s a form of self-expression that allows her to define her own identity. The film encourages viewers to embrace their talents and pursue their passions, no matter how unconventional they may seem.
_Cinderella (2021)_ is a jukebox musical, meaning it incorporates well-known songs from various genres to drive the story forward. The musical numbers are one of the film’s highlights, offering a fresh and vibrant take on the classic narrative. Some of the standout songs include:
– **“Rhythm Nation”** (Janet Jackson): This energetic number is used to introduce the ensemble cast, showcasing the lively and diverse kingdom in which the story takes place. The choreography and visuals in this scene set the tone for the film’s modern, upbeat vibe.
– **“Material Girl”** (Madonna): Performed by Idina Menzel’s Vivian, this song captures the stepmother’s materialistic values and her desire for status and wealth. It’s a fun, cheeky take on Vivian’s character, adding humor to her otherwise stern persona.
– **“Million to One”** (Camila Cabello): This original song is Ella’s anthem of self-determination. It encapsulates her dreams of breaking free from her current life and achieving her goals. Cabello’s performance is heartfelt and empowering, making this one of the film’s emotional highlights.
– **“Somebody to Love”** (Queen): Prince Robert’s rendition of this classic song reflects his internal struggle with expectations and his longing to find someone who understands and accepts him for who he is.
The musical numbers are seamlessly integrated into the storyline, adding both entertainment value and emotional depth to the characters’ journeys.
_Cinderella (2021)_ breaks away from traditional fairytale conventions in several key ways. Most notably, Ella’s character is not defined by her romantic relationship with the prince. While the love story between her and Prince Robert is still present, it’s secondary to her personal ambitions and desire for self-fulfillment.
The film also addresses issues of gender roles and societal expectations, with both Ella and Prince Robert resisting the pressures placed upon them. Ella wants to pursue a career rather than settle for marriage, and Prince Robert wants to marry for love, not duty. This modern reinterpretation aligns with contemporary values, making the story more relatable and inspiring for modern audiences.
Additionally, the inclusion of Fab G as a gender-neutral fairy godparent reflects a shift towards more inclusive and diverse representation in mainstream media. Fab G’s character is a celebration of individuality and self-confidence, reinforcing the film’s message of being true to oneself.
The visual design of _Cinderella_ is a feast for the eyes, with vibrant costumes and stunning set pieces that bring the magical world to life. Ella’s iconic transformation scene is a visual highlight, with Fab G conjuring a dazzling gown that perfectly captures the fairy tale magic.
The film’s costume design, overseen by Ellen Mirojnick, is bold and contemporary, blending traditional fairytale aesthetics with modern fashion elements. Ella’s dresses, in particular, are a reflection of her creativity and passion for design, symbolizing her journey toward self-expression and independence.
_Cinderella (2021)_ received mixed reviews from critics and audiences. While many praised the film’s modern take on the classic story, catchy musical numbers, and diverse cast, others felt that the film didn’t fully capture the magic of the original tale. Some critics pointed out that the film’s pacing felt rushed, and the integration of modern elements into the fairytale setting was occasionally jarring.
However, for audiences looking for a feel-good, empowering reimagining of _Cinderella_, the film delivered on its promise of entertainment, inspiration, and celebration of individuality.
_Cinderella (2021)_ is a fresh and empowering take on a timeless story, with a modern twist that appeals to contemporary audiences. With its focus on self-expression, ambition, and independence, this version of _Cinderella_ breaks away from traditional fairytale conventions, offering a new perspective on the iconic character. Despite its mixed reception, the film’s catchy musical numbers, vibrant visuals, and progressive themes make it a standout adaptation for a new generation.
