Written by contributor Jeanette Zhukov
Year after year there always seems to be some kind of new fairy tale live-action remake. Reminding many of us of our childhoods, remakes tend to draw in viewers by promising a dose of nostalgic euphoria for those happier, more carefree days. While newer and shinier versions of beloved stories are promised, it is easier to overlook the gems of years past.
The 1990’s were a decade of live-action fairy tales that were either theatrically campy or just simply revitalised a tired genre with a fresh style and atmosphere. Blowing newer remakes out of the water, these five are worth watching again and again, whether it be your first time or your hundredth.
Cinderella (1997)
Also known as Roger & Hammerstein’s Cinderella, this musical film has got to be THE best modern adaptation of a fairy tale with THE best cast. With an incredibly diverse group of actors, the film is full of acting legends as well as singing powerhouses like Whitney Houston as the Fairy Godmother, Brandy as Cinderella, and Bernadette Peters as the Stepmother. This movie thrives off of its catchy songs, vibrant costumes, and picturesque sets making it a visual feast and unlike any other Cinderella film. While the movie has the same premise as the Disney animated version of Cinderella, the experience is remarkably different as it embodies an excessive theatricality consisting of funny dialogue, exaggerated acting, and a sweet romance. The portrayal of the magic is a little cheesy due to the graphics, but hey, it was the ’90s! Those cartoonish graphics are part of the decade’s charm. Remarkably unique, it’s possible that watching Cinderella will prove to be a dazzling fun time!
Alice in Wonderland (1999)
Clocking in at a solid two hours and thirty minutes long, the 1999 version of Alice in Wonderland feels like an absolute journey. Combining elements from both of Lewis Carroll’s books, Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland and Through the Looking-Glass, the film will make you feel like you’ve spent an entire day traversing through Wonderland. Encapsulating feelings of being nonsensical and contemplative, this version is an incredibly comforting option for anyone looking to relieve stress.
Alice in Wonderland consists of an absolutely amazing cast, it features Whoopi Goldberg as the Cheshire Cat, Sir Ben Kingsley as Major Caterpillar, Martin Short as the Mad Hatter, and Gene Wilder as the Mock Turtle. The movie begins with a garden party at Alice’s estate, and at this party Alice is expected to sing a song for the guests. Nervous about her performance, Alice runs into the woods and sees a mysterious White Rabbit. She evidently follows him down the rabbit hole and the rest of the movie follows suit. While in Wonderland, Alice meets and interacts with interesting and memorable characters that give her little bits of advice. The cast and characters of this film are what make it such an enticing watch. So, if you want to get lost for the next few hours in a blanket of comforting familiarity and oddball silliness then this is the perfect movie.
Snow White: A Tale of Terror (1997)
Though “Snow White” has always had a reputation for being on the frightening side, this adaptation is classified as the horror version of the tale, and while the movie is not exactly too scary, it is a darker retelling. Snow White: A Tale of Terror is about Snow White, or in this case she is named Lilli Hoffman, and the series of events caused by jealousy that she evoked from her stepmother Lady Claudia, played by Sigourney Weaver. Lilli and Lady Claudia’s relationship has certainly been damaged throughout the years as they have continuously provoked the other. Though it is when Lady Claudia officially recognises that Lilli is no longer a child, but a beautiful young woman, that she really takes action on her anger. All the elements in this movie are more sinister, Lady Claudia is teeming with dark magic as she also has a magical mirror with a mind of its own and her brother, Gustav, who does her bidding for her.
Keep in mind that since this is a darker version of the story, there are bloodier and more graphic scenes. If that was not enough, the seven dwarfs, or in this movie, the seven rugged miners, are initially presented as a morally gray and frightening bunch. The fact that it is a bleaker adult version of the story is not the only reason you should watch this movie, but you are also sure to fall in love with this movie’s beautifully moody atmosphere, the romance, and the spookily delightful performance by Weaver as the evil stepmother.
Hook (1991)
Hook is a reimagining and sequel to J.M. Barrie’s classic story of Peter Pan. The Steven Spielberg film takes a look at Peter Pan all grown up as a lawyer named Peter Banning, played by the incomparable Robin Williams. Peter Banning is a no-fuss and all business short of guy, and the fun part is that he has no idea who he really is. Having a strained relationship with his wife and two kids, they all take a trip to London to visit his wife’s grandmother, Wendy. Yes, it is THAT Wendy. Too bad Peter’s old foe, Captain Hook, still holds a grudge against him because, once the family is in London, Captain Hook kidnaps Peter’s kids. Peter is thus forced to go on an adventure to Neverland.
Williams expertly portrays the fish out of water scenario in an enticing way, creating a funny and cute family-friendly film. While the movie can be enjoyed by all ages, it will have you back in love with the adventurous locale of Neverland, but this time through the, maybe somewhat relatable, perspective of an adult Peter. This rendition is also special because it feels like an elaborate stage production, full of entertaining and overtly theatrical pirates. Another interesting feature is the surprising and unexpected cast of actors, from Dustin Hoffman playing Captain Hook, Maggie Smith as Aunt Wendy, and even Julia Roberts as Tinkerbell! With just a hint of pixie dust, this movie will have you feeling like a kid again.
Ever After (1998)
The other “Cinderella” story on this list, Ever After takes a more historical approach to the classic tale except it has little basis in actual history. Set in France during the Renaissance, the film stars Drew Barrymore as Danielle, a lowly housemaid living with her abusive stepmother and indifferent stepsisters. One day, Danielle finds herself impersonating a noblewoman and attracts the attention of the prince. Along with Barrymore, the film’s all-star cast consists of Anjelica Huston as the stepmother and Patrick Godfrey as Leonardo da Vinci. Yeah, that’s right, there is even a Leonardo da Vinci in this retelling.
Playing with the time period through the incorporation of historical references, the film takes on a more realistic style. Instead of magic, it is science, philosophical thought, and self-determination that ultimately takes precedence in saving the downtrodden Danielle. There is a lot to enjoy about this adaptation, ranging from the divine costuming, the smart and headstrong Cinderella, the fact that the story is incredibly romantic, and that this film will make you believe, even if for a second, that it’s based on a true story. Filled with charming characters and a lovable prince, this film is an instant favourite and will leave you feeling happily ever after.
