Ever After: A Cinderella Story (DVD, 2009, Wedding Faceplate)

Everyone knows the Cinderella story, or at least the Disney version. Some may even know the story by the brothers Grimm. Now I like fairy tales, but I'd never fallen in love with one until I saw Ever After with Drew Barrymore.

Few movies manage to truly transport me into their world. But from the very start, Ever After had me captivated. The world of little Danielle became mine. What did it? The location was perfect for the farm. The costumes were superb. The dialogue coach did an incredible job. And all of the actors were very Renaissance to me.

The script managed to turn an unbelievable fairy tale into a story that is now very much real. Forget pumpkins and mice. This Ella of the Cinders slept with the book Utopia by her side, mingled with the other servants on the estate, and managed to befriend and eventually enlist the help of none other than Leonardo Da Vinci - a far cry from a handful of singing, dancing mice. It took more than a dance and a fancy dress to make this Prince Charming - Or Prince Henry, as the case may be - fall in love with our Cinderella. She did it with her wit, her charm, her poise, and her intellect that was way ahead of its time. Wicked stepmother? Indeed. Wicked stepsisters? Well, one of them. A fantastical creation that was masterfully crafted, this new Cinderella set the new standard for modern fairy tales.

As I've already mentioned, the characters in this version of the Cinderella story are very real. Drew Barrymore was the perfect choice for the lead role. Her supporting cast was well chosen, and we see more than just the one-dimensional personalities of the old story. Bravo to the cast and the casting director.

A true romantic at heart, I must admit that I'm a sucker for a good love story. But Ever After is more than just a flimsy script and a few cutesy moments. There is real drama and real emotion, real conflict and real talent to be seen. This is more than just another attempt to remake a classic story.

I recommend this movie to anyone else who is a romantic at heart. Ever After would be especially good for winding down after a long week with the person you love. So cuddle up on the sofa and see for yourself. I hope you agree.