This origin story of the 101 Dalmatians villain stars Emma Stone as the aspiring designer who finds herself in 70s London. It’s not long before her life is changed when she discovers an esteemed, arrogant fashion icon (Emma Thompson). This is Emma vs. Emma and the elder wins. While Stone does a good job, it’s Thompson who’s so beautifully wicked, haughty and dismissive of everyone but herself. The other primary aspect of this version is the world of fashion. The wildly inventive, over-the-top beauty of the clothes provides constant visual stimulus. As the funniest thing in the movie, Paul Walter Hauser once again demonstrates his incredible range. Overall, this is more unruly, punk, grown up and even gay-friendly than most Disney releases. Even at 2+ hours, the pacing never lags and the story manages to keep interest, although some of the songs in the raucous soundtrack seemed out of place. Much of the film’s success is due to the continually-attractive visuals and Thompson’s deliciously nasty performance. NOTE: Stay thru the early credits for one last moment. 
(3.5 / 5)
