Cinderella, the beloved fairy tale, makes its return to television this evening as the enchanting live-action remake directed by Kenneth Branagh airs on Rai 1 at 21:30. Originally released theatrically to great acclaim on March 12, 2015, this retelling brings to life the classic story known to generations of viewers, with elements and charm reimagined for modern audiences.
The film features the talented Lily James as Ella, more commonly known as Cinderella, who endures the oppressive rule of her wicked stepmother Lady Tremaine, portrayed by Cate Blanchett, alongside her cruel stepsisters Anastasia and Drisella. Richard Madden takes on the role of Prince Kit, whose character is fleshed out significantly more than his animated predecessor.
Fans can expect to encounter familiar events, but this version introduces new depth and moments. For example, it explores the initial encounter between Ella and the Prince during a chance meeting within the woods, contrary to the timeline of events established by the original Disney animated film. The narrative invites audiences to witness Cinderella's unwavering spirit as she navigates hardship, embodying her mother's directive to "be kind and have courage," even when faced with despair after losing her father.
Visually, the film showcases breathtaking production elements. The iconic ballroom scene features Cinderella donning a stunning dress embellished with 1000 Swarovski crystals, capturing the essence of Disney's extravagant storytelling and attention to detail. Dante Ferretti, the Oscar-winning production designer, has crafted the grand ballroom, ensuring the scene's scale and beauty resonate through the television screen.
Branagh's adaptation goes beyond mere retelling, drawing inspiration from classic literary works to give Prince Kit more substance and dialogue, transforming him from the silent romantic of the past to a relatable character with clear motivations and depth.
Fans of the original animated film will appreciate the subtle nods and alterations made throughout, such as Ella's timely realization of her true identity and her adventurous spirit guiding her choices. These enhancements lend vibrancy to the narrative, making it appealing to both die-hard fans and new viewers alike.
Branagh also adds intriguing behind-the-scenes touches, claiming, "When creating this version, we wished to remain truthful to the essence of the classic fairy tale," effectively bridging the gap between generations of fans. He even noted the inclusion of hidden details, such as secret dialogue for the mice characters, which offer laughs and surprises when deciphered carefully.
The film has not only become one of Disney's most well-received live-action adaptations but also one of the most discussed, serving as inspiration for future projects. With new live-action adaptations set to release soon, the trend appears to be here to stay.
This evening's broadcast of Cinderella on Rai 1 serves as both nostalgia and discovery for viewers of all ages. So, gather your family, indulge in the magic of this timeless tale, and witness how bravery, kindness, and fortitude lead to the transformation of Ella from servant to princess, embodying the spirit of hope and joy long celebrated through the ages.