Fairytale
Common Sense is a nonprofit organization. Your purchase helps us remain independent and ad-free.
Fairytale
Did we miss something on diversity?
Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by suggesting a diversity update.
Suggest an Update
A Lot or a Little?
The parents' guide to what's in this movie.
What Parents Need to Know
Parents need to know that Fairytale -- original name Favola -- is an intriguing Italian dramedy, with English subtitles, that tackles LGBTQ issues, including gender identity and an anti-gay society. Beginning life as a stage play, the movie takes place entirely in one location. It satirizes the 1950s American dream, so includes gender stereotypes and sexism, though these are played for irony and comedy. There is a transgender narrative in that the main character of Mrs. Fairytale is played by male actor Filippo Timi. This may be confusing for some children, but also a good opportunity to begin a conversation. There is mention of domestic abuse and a struggle between a husband and wife. Guns are aimed and shot, with one character considering suicide and another shot dead. There is kissing and the implication of sex, but much of the flirting and seduction is played for laughs. Drinking and smoking are almost constantly shown. Two characters are also drugged when their drinks are spiked with sleeping pills. Both the settings and characters are surreal, larger than life, and full of quirks. Though dark at times, the movie is a lot of fun and has a strong message about identity and individuality.
Community Reviews
There aren't any reviews yet. Be the first to review this title.
What's the Story?
In FAIRYTALE, 1950s housewife Mrs. Fairytale (Filippo Timi) is trapped inside the American dream, with a beautiful suburban home full of the latest furniture and fashion. She lives for her beloved dog -- a mischievous stuffed poodle called Lady -- and daily visits from her friend Mrs. Emerald (Lucia Mascino). But, beneath the surface, she is in an abusive marriage, questioning her identity, and finding that her version of a fairytale is something very different to the one she's been sold. When the two housewives fall in love, they plan to do whatever it takes to be together -- even if that means murder. But is there really a way for them to be completely free when society won't accept them for who they are?
Is It Any Good?
Entering the world of this film is like walking into a Technicolor fantasy, albeit one that is slightly off center. The vibrant sets, with their brightly colored carpets and flamingo wallpaper, look like they've sprung from the catalog of a design museum, given a surreal edge with some jittery editing and claustrophobic framing. That feeling of being trapped is enhanced by the single location -- an element inherited from the movie's beginnings as a stage play -- written by Timi himself and first produced in 2011. The costumes by Prada's design director Fabio Zambernardi are equally flamboyant and a smart way to enhance the stereotypes and gender issues explored in the film.
The 1950s is the perfect era to examine what's behind the shiny, fashionable mask of middle America, and Fairytale does so with an absurdist, satirical edge that makes it both a bizarre and enjoyable experience. Dark in places, but full of humor and heart in others, the story sees Mrs. Fairytale give up the version of a fairytale imposed on her by society for her own fairytale -- one that's happy ending is grounded in joy, freedom, and personal truth.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the role of women in Fairytale. How are they portrayed? How does it differ from today? Why is it good to challenge gender stereotypes?
Discuss the LGBTQ issues raised in the movie. Do you think they're a fair reflection of real life? What do you think life is like for a member of the LGBTQ community?
How does Mrs. Fairytale change during the movie and what does her happy ending look like? How does she display courage? Why is this an important character strength to have? How can I use media to teach my kid courage?
The majority of the movie is confined to one location. Can you think of any other movies that are based in one place throughout?
Movie Details
- On DVD or streaming: May 12, 2020
- Cast: Sergio Albelli, Piera Degli Esposti, Lucia Mascino
- Director: Sebastiano Mauri
- Studio: Breaking Glass Pictures
- Genre: Comedy
- Character Strengths: Courage
- Run time: 87 minutes
- MPAA rating: NR
- Last updated: June 2, 2022
Our Editors Recommend
-
To Wong Foo, Thanks for Everything, Julie Newmar
Drag-queen road comedy has some stereotypes, language.
-
The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert
Drag queens drive funny, tender, but mature musical.
-
Transparent
Darkly comic series tours gender identity, family dynamics.
For kids who love LGBTQ stories
Common Sense Media's unbiased ratings are created by expert reviewers and aren't influenced by the product's creators or by any of our funders, affiliates, or partners.
See how we rate