“Enchanted” is a delightful mix of traditional Disney fairytale magic and modern-day realism. Directed by Kevin Lima, the 2007 film brings animated characters to life, blending genres to create a whimsical yet heartwarming story. With Amy Adams delivering an enchanting performance as Giselle, the movie offers a refreshing take on love, fantasy, and finding happily-ever-after in unexpected places.
Quick Overview
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Title | Enchanted |
| Release Date | November 21, 2007 |
| Genre | Fantasy, Romance, Comedy |
| Director | Kevin Lima |
| Lead Actors | Amy Adams, Patrick Dempsey, James Marsden |
| Runtime | 107 minutes |
| IMDb Rating | 7.1/10 |
Plot Synopsis
The story begins in the animated kingdom of Andalasia, where Giselle, a cheerful young woman, dreams of true love. Just as she is about to marry Prince Edward, she is banished to modern-day New York City by the evil Queen Narissa. Transformed into a live-action character, Giselle struggles to navigate the gritty urban environment. She befriends Robert, a skeptical divorce lawyer, and his daughter, Morgan. As she adjusts to the real world, Giselle begins to question her fairytale notions of love and finds herself torn between two worlds.
Key Highlights
| Aspect | Comment |
|---|---|
| Cinematography | Vibrant and whimsical transitions between animated and real worlds |
| Music/Soundtrack | Memorable songs by Alan Menken and Stephen Schwartz |
| Acting Performances | Amy Adams shines as Giselle, supported by a strong cast |
| Screenplay | Clever and humorous homage to classic Disney tropes |
| Direction | Seamless blend of fantasy and reality |
In-Depth Review
Acting
Amy Adams delivers a standout performance as Giselle, capturing the innocence and charm of a fairytale princess while infusing the character with depth and humor. Patrick Dempsey is the perfect foil as the grounded and pragmatic Robert. James Marsden adds a comedic flair as the over-the-top Prince Edward, and Susan Sarandon is delightfully menacing as Queen Narissa.
Direction
Kevin Lima skillfully bridges two contrasting worlds—Andalasia and New York City. His direction ensures the whimsical tone of the film remains intact while allowing the characters to explore deeper emotions.
Screenplay
The screenplay, written by Bill Kelly, cleverly subverts traditional Disney fairytale conventions. The film pokes fun at tropes like “true love’s kiss” while celebrating the timeless appeal of romance and adventure.
Cinematography
Don Burgess’s cinematography beautifully contrasts the lush, colorful animation of Andalasia with the gritty realism of New York City. The transitions between these worlds are seamless and visually engaging.
Music
Alan Menken and Stephen Schwartz’s soundtrack is a major highlight, with songs like “How Does She Know?” and “That’s How You Know” paying homage to classic Disney musicals. The music enhances the film’s fairytale charm while adding a modern twist.
Comparison with Similar Works
| Title | Similarity | Difference |
|---|---|---|
| Ella Enchanted | Modern reimagining of fairytale tropes | Focuses more on rebellion against traditional roles |
| Shrek | Parody of fairytales with humor | Heavily satirical and less romantic |
| Enchanted 2 (Disenchanted) | Continuation of Giselle’s story in modern life | Darker tone, exploring post-happily-ever-after struggles |
Audience Reception
| Platform | Rating/Score |
|---|---|
| IMDb | 7.1/10 |
| Rotten Tomatoes | 93% (Critics) / 80% (Audience) |
| Metacritic | 75/100 |
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Amy Adams’s charismatic and charming performance | Predictable plot for some viewers |
| Catchy music and heartfelt storytelling | Villain’s arc feels rushed |
| Beautiful blend of animation and live-action | Over-the-top humor may not appeal to all |
Conclusion
“Enchanted” is a delightful film that combines the best elements of classic Disney fairytales with a modern twist. Its witty screenplay, charming performances, and memorable music make it a must-watch for fans of fantasy and romance. Whether you’re reliving your childhood or exploring fairytales with a fresh perspective, “Enchanted” is sure to leave you smiling.
What did you think of “Enchanted”? Share your thoughts in the comments below! If you haven’t seen it yet, let this magical journey sweep you off your feet.