Disney has created a lush, but somewhat lackluster live action version of the classic fairy tale. Lily James glows with kindness and beauty in the title role, while Richard Madden make a dashing Prince Charming. Cate Blanchett brings old world elegance as the stepmother without adding much evil charm. Director Kenneth Branagh has emphasized the earnest emotional content, but it’s really the visuals where this film shines: Dante Ferretti’s art direction and Sandy Powell’s exceptional costumes are simply gorgeous. There’s not a lot of personality or comic relief in the cast, but the sincerity of the performances keeps it involving. NOTE: The animated short before the feature is a new song from the “Frozen” sisters.
(3.5 / 5)