Cinderella

This version of the Disney Classic stars the beautiful Lily James in the lead role as Ella, Richard Madden as Kit the prince, and Cate Blanchett as Lady Tremaine who his Ella’s wicked step mother.  This version was superbly directed by Kenneth Brannagh. 

Ella’s mother dies when she is very young.  Her mother left her with the words to always show courage and kindness to others.  She quickly becomes the apple of her father’s eye.  He becomes lonely and marries the recently widowed Lady Tremaine who has two daughters of her own.   Ella’s father’s profession requires him to travel around a lot.  While away on a trip, her father dies leaving her alone with her wicked step mother and two wicked step sisters.  All quickly assign her the duties of cooking and cleaning for them and banish her to the attic. 

One day while out riding her horse, she comes upon a group of hunters and chastises one of them for hunting a defenseless animal.  She did not realize that the man she spoke to was the prince as he only told her his name was Kit. 

There is to be a ball that all of the people of the land are invited to. The purpose of the ball is for the prince to choose a wife.  Ella wants to attend so she might meet up again with Kit but is forbidden by her step mother.  However, she finds a way with the help from her fairy godmother.

The imagery in this movie was terrific.  I really loved everything about this movie.  I have seen several versions of Cinderella but this might be the best.  I encourage all families to take their kids.  However, adults will enjoy this just as much.  

I highly recommend this movie and gave it four out of four stars.