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Rodgers & Hammerstein's Cinderella (NR, 1997)

common sense media says

Multi-ethnic cast modernizes classic fairy tale.

parents & educators say
See all 4 reviews | Review it

What parents need to know

Parents need to know that this movie, as in some other versions, establishes that Cinderella's father has died. She lives with her stepmother and two stepsisters, and it's clear that they have relegated her to the role of servant. They frequently mock her and demand that she wait on them hand-and-foot.

Positive messages: With the exception of the conniving stepmother and the obnoxious two stepsisters, characters in this movie are generally portrayed as good and caring. In the end, the good-hearted person triumphs.
Violence & scariness: Occasional pushing and shoving. A man on a ladder almost falls off due to the inadvertent recklessness of other characters, but the scene is played for slapstick laughs.
Sexy stuff: Some kissing.
Language: No profanity, but some name-calling, such as "stupid" and "lazy."
Consumerism: Not applicable.
Drinking, drugs, & smoking: Not applicable.
Our ratings and reviews are informed by child development guidelines. Learn more.

More on Rodgers & Hammerstein's Cinderella

What to talk about

Talk to your kids

Families can talk about why it's significant that this version of Cinderella features a diverse cast that includes African-American, white, and Asian performers, as well as an interracial marriage. Also, does this version of the story feature a more empowered Cinderella? Or is it still the traditional tale where she must be rescued by her fairy godmother and the prince?

What's the story?

What's the story?

A modern retelling of the classic tale, this version of RODGERS & HAMMERSTEIN'S CINDERELLA features a multiethnic cast including Brandy in the titular role, Bernadette Peters as the wicked stepmom, Whoopi Goldberg as the Queen, Paolo Montalban as the prince, and Whitney Houston as the fairy godmother. Pop star Brandy shows off her vocal skills in tunes like "In My Own Little Corner" and "A Lovely Night." Indeed, the highlight of this adaptation comes in watching three generations of high-voltage songstresses -- Peters, Houston, and Brandy -- belt out the Rodgers & Hammerstein lyrics.

Is it any good?

Is it any good?
 

The movie's strengths are its richly hued costumes, its vibrant sets, and several entertaining musical sequences. The finest acting comes from Peters, deliciously snooty as the wicked stepmother, and Goldberg, who brings a quirky charm to her role as the prince's mother (and kudos to her for tackling a brief singing sequence). Houston is also great as the wisecracking but warm fairy godmother.

Other aspects don't fare quite as well. Some dance numbers seem too staged and stiff. Jason Alexander, best known for his role in Seinfeld, seems a bit out of place here, particularly in a lavish song-and-dance number. Yet he skillfully handles the drier humor of his role as the prince's assistant. Overall, kids will be captivated, and adults will enjoy some aspects of this modern take on an old fairy tale.

Movie themes & details

Movie Details
Studio: Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment
Director: Robert Iscove
Cast: Bernadette Peters, Brandy Norwood, Jason Alexander, Whitney Houston, Whoopi Goldberg
Genre: Family and Kids
Run time: 99 minutes
Theatrical release: November 2, 1997
DVD release: February 4, 2003
MPAA Rating: NR
MPAA explanation: Not Rated
This review was written by Teresa Talerico
 
 

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Most useful reviews by all members

DisneyRoxMySox
teen, 15 years old
 
WOW!
This movie was amazing! Brandy and Whitney's voices to so well with each other. There should be no person on the planet who can't love this movie.(It is so awesome and is ethnically diverse.) I even sang "In My Own Little Corner" for a play audition. Gosh, I just love this movie. I love it when Bernadette Peters yawns dramatically and says, "I don't know about you, but I'm tired" It is so cute! Plus Whoopi Goldberg is in it. All the songs are simply gorgeous. Any age can watch this movie
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Mojo02
teen, 15 years old
 
i love it
I watched this when I was a little kid. it's almost better than the origanal
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MissE1000
teen, 16 years old
2
 
Good for anyone who loves musicals
Good for any ages, nothing bad about it, my mom let me watch it when I was three.
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MovieFan777
teen, 16 years old
2
 
One Great Musical!
This beautiful and classic musical based off the classic fairy tale is amazing fun for the whole family! Even teens will fall in love with this upbeat version of Rogers and Hammerstein's popular musical! And don't let the critics make you think this isn't a great musical, it is the best of the three films.
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