A silly, farcical spoof on fairytale romances. But nothing that can’t be put right by an ensemble song and dance number at the close (Anne Hathaway has some serious vocal skills). I give this film a 7 (fun spoof) out of 10. [Fairytale Romance]
Hugh dancy is a precious cinnamon roll who must be preserved at all costs.
Also, I'm having a hard time grasping a universe where char and will Graham both exist.
Not to be confused with Enchanted starring Amy Adams, this fairy tale just does not seem to measure up to the standard. The movie is hindered by several incongruous characters and blatant attempts at using anachronistic jokes such as a recycling bin and "if the gauntlets do not fit you must acquit" -- more Mel Brooksish. The story is a fairly tale and feels like it is told to please ten year olds but to throw the adults a bone like was done much better in Aladdin felt forced here. Vivica Fox's portrayal of Lucinda and her fall from fairie grace were perplexing to say the least. Cary Elwes was his usual Dread Pirate Roberts role which works here as the main villain of our story. The movie is saved by Anne Hathaway. Her charisma shines through and I loved the scene where she sings Queen's "Somebody to Love" at the giant wedding. Some of the other dance numbers don't fit too well but they are still fun. Ella is strong, stubborn and still believable as she struggles to shed her strange gift/curse.
Say what you will about this movie, but, it was very inspirational to me in high school, and watching it again recently reminded me of why. When this movie came out, a friend--a former drill sergeant, at that--glowingly recommended it to me. As a longtime fan of both Disney and Disney-esque productions, I figured I'd enjoy it...but, I had no idea the effect it was going to have on me. As soon as the credits rolled, I was ready to announce to everyone that Anne Hathaway had replaced Hilary Duff as my number one celebrity crush...and I spent the next few days telling everyone that! I also couldn't stop watching the finale, which made me smile again today, many years after watching it originally.
Why the lasting appeal? For two reasons: One, it has everything I could want in a movie: humor, action, romance, suspense, and even a great soundtrack. Second off, because the main storyline is inspirational. Even though I'm a guy, I could identify with Ella's curse because I was sort of saddled with problems from birth as well: a psychological "condition," my biological father walking out on me and my sisters, leaving me as the only male in my household, etc. However, as Chuck Swindoll once said, "Life is 10% what happens to you, and 90% how you react to it." Ella of Frell could have gone into hiding, and lived as a hermit so that nobody could tell her to do something ever again...but, instead, she did something about her curse of obedience...and eventually overcame it by her own will. For someone like me, the character of Ella is both a inspiration and a role model, not to mention a strong female protagonist, which I always find admirable.
So, for me, this isn't just some silly Disney film or forgettable romantic comedy; it's a big-time inspiration, even if the original novel wasn't. I've always liked stories of triumphs; I hate movies and books that end on a sad note, because I want my heroes and heroines to overcome the odds: solve the case, save the day, win the game, etc. Ella's story is a prime example of that. I do have to issue one caution, though: Some discerning viewers--especially those with "Y" chromosomes--may be bothered with the immodest wardrobe of female characters at times. You may want to avoid this if you can't watch it without violating Matthew 5:28.
This movie truly is so charming and, as the title suggests, absolutely enchanting! It looks and feels exactly like a fairytale, but much more comedic and with actual personality within the characters! It's clearly meant to be somewhat of a Cinderella retelling, but it's truly sooo much better. Not only is Ella a strong, smart, sassy and independent woman, she also actually gets to know the prince! I genuinely believed their love story (even if it only happened in a few days, which was a shame, but whatever) and I just adored the way Prince Char was thoroughly obsessed with Ella! This boy was whipped and smitten, and I just love that so much.
This will never measure up to the amazing book it's based on, but it's such a silly, fun movie you can't help but fall in love!
This is a fun movie. I like the somewhat insidious (for being in a kids/family movie) message on the dangers of always doing what you're told. Also plays around with some of the fairy tale tropes rather well. Love that Carey Elwes plays the evil king.
It's very cheesy, but a good time nonetheless. Really liked!
Very cheesy, but a good lighthearted film. Love Anne Hathaway!
Shout by Click MBlockedParent2023-12-27T03:11:20Z
light story enjoyable, fun movie