Cinderella

The 2021 version of Cinderella brings a refreshing narrative to a well-loved classic fairy tale starring Camilla Cabello in the titular role alongside a star-studded cast including Billy Porter, Nicholas Galitzine, amongst others.

With Kay Cannon at the helm, this film is a reimagined adaptation which revitalises the age-old tale with a contemporary twist. Set in the same fairytale kingdom, the film centers around the young, orphaned Ella, portrayed by multi-talented singer and actress Camila Cabello. The narrative unfolds with Ella's yearning need to create a better life for herself. Living in an oppressive household under a domineering stepmother, she is caught in a ceaseless cycle of tireless labor, yearning for a better life.

What stands out about this Cinderella is Ella's determination and drive. Although the traditional story speaks of 'Cinderella' as a damsel in distress, Cannon’s take on the fairy tale presents Ella as an ambitious young woman who dreams of becoming a successful dressmaker despite the societal norms that discourage female entrepreneurship.

Camilla Cabello's performances both in the acting and singing scenes keep audiences captivated throughout the movie. With her reprisal of the iconic Cinderella song "A Dream is a Wish your Heart Makes", Cabello demonstrates her vocal prowess. In her acting debut, Cabello proves her versatility, making the audience believe and invest in her character’s journey with her charming performance.

Sharing the screen with Cabello is the dashing and charismatic Prince Robert, played by Nicholas Galitzine, bringing a new depth to the 'prince charming' archetype. The prince doesn’t just fall in love with Cinderella for her beauty but appreciates Ella for her innovative spirit and ambition too - a nod to the changing times and evolving perceptions of relationships.

The ensemble includes Idina Menzel as the cruel stepmother, bringing a layer of complexity to an otherwise unidimensional character. Rather than being the outright villain, Menzel's portrayal introduces a woman hardened by a society that values women solely for their marriageability. Also among the cast are Maddie Baillio and Charlotte Spencer as the stepsisters, providing necessary comic relief and occasional empathy towards Ella.

Billy Porter's portrayal of the Fabulous Godmother, or rather ‘Fab G’, is nothing short of iconoclastic, completely reimagining the concept of fairy godmothers. Porter's Fab G is a wonderfully flamboyant character with a twist on the traditional fairy godmother, reminding audiences of the power of believing in oneself.

The movie is irreverent and offers quite a few laugh-out-loud moments coupled alongside soul-stirring performances by its lead actors and supporting cast. The dialogues are witty, the music is impactful, and the settings are visually appealing. Above all, Cinderella champions the cause of female empowerment and dreaming big. It manages to transform the archaic idea of a prince rescuing a damsel in distress to a bold, ambitious woman crafting her destiny.

From the costumes to the idyllic, fairy tale sets, the movie is visually enchanting. It uses its appeal to not just create a spectacle but also to move the narrative forward. A fairy tale it may be, but it doesn't shy away from depicting reality: the reality of what women have faced, are facing, and how they're constantly battling societal judgments to push forth.

The film includes lively song-and-dance sequences featuring contemporary pop songs and original compositions that further add to the film's playful, celebratory, and hopeful tone. This is not a mere recital of a familiar story; instead, Cinderella (2021) showcase a heroine willing to shed her past, embrace herself, and pave a path that leads to her dreams.

In conclusion, this retelling of Cinderella delivers an empowering message about ambition and determination. The film features powerful performances, unforgettable music sequences, and a modern twist that will leave audiences cheering for the aspiring dressmaker. Whether it’s the surprising depth it brings to age-old characters or the infectious tunes that make you want to sing along, Cinderella is an entertaining watch for both old and new fans of the beloved fairytale.