Whilst the story never strays from the beaten path, Cinderella feels as though it's gone back in time to the good old fashioned kind of storytelling. Unlike other recent live action adaptations (such as last summer's Maleficent) it embraces the traditional fairytale, something that feels welcomed after the many attempts there have been to turn these stories inside out and make them into something they are not.
There are some undeniably gifted actors and actresses present in this film. Lily James, probably most recognisable for her role in British TV series Downton Abbey, plays Cinderella with an easy grace befitting one of the earliest and most well known Disney princesses. The likes of Hayley Atwell and Helena Bonham Carter drop in for a fleeting visit as Ella's mother and the fairy godmother, respectively. But it quickly becomes apparent that this is Cate Blanchett's show. She plays the part of the evil Stepmother flawlessly. And unlike in the original, she becomes a villain with a motive. Not only is she wicked, but also vulnerable as demonstrated in the monologue she delivers in the films final act. Whilst this dramatic performance may cause Blanchett to dominate the screen, this combined with the antics of the two step sisters often make it seem as though the film is treading the line between flamboyance and over the top pantomiming. Thankfully, it never crosses it.
If anything, a live action fairytale makes it even more astounding. The visual effects are brilliant and bring the tale to life. Whilst these effects are not overly used, the scenes in which they are prominent make the whole film seem that little bit more magical.
It may be the epitome of predictability, but this film is well acted, well directed and overall quite fun.
