This movie of Stephen Sondheim’s musical mashes up the plots and characters from several fairy tales into a wonderfully amusing and dark entertainment (although a little more Disneyfied and less dark than the original). The cast is in great voice, but their performances (and the ability to clearly hear the brilliantly clever lyrics) make it a delight. Meryl Streep brings her authenticity to nuanced and touching brilliance as the Witch and Chris Pine’s arrogant prince reveals his comic charms better than “Horrible Bosses 2” does. Director Rob Marshall successfully shortened it. He keeps it grounded in the humor and humanity, without resorting to dazzling cinematic tricks. Lovers of the stage show will be pleased with this spirited and smart adaptation. Note to parents: even though it’s not lascivious or violent, this is not a typical fairy tale family film.
(4.5 / 5)