Cinderella 2: Dreams Come True
Disney/Buena Vista Pictures
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Synopsis:
Now a princess, Cinderella 2: Dreams Come True, follows Cinderella into a world far removed from her humble beginnings as a chimney sweeper—the royal life. Surrounded by her rather helpful mice friends Jaq, Beatrice, Gus, as well as the Fairy Godmother, life isn't so bad, aside from the royal family's stodginess.
After missing story time featuring Cinderella's now ubiquitous rags-to-riches story, the mice decide to write the sequel to what happens post "happily ever after." With the help of Fairy Godmother's magic wand and some "bippity boppity boo," a book of three short tales is born.
The first tale shows Cinderella in her new role as princess—a role she must fulfill alone as the Prince is whisked off to attend to stately matters. She is handed the task of planning the Royal Banquet, a seemingly fun mission that gives her endless difficulty.
The second story shows again that dreams do come true, when Cinderella plans the Spring Festival and the Fairy Godmother grants another life-changing wish.
The third story is an unexpected love story between Cinderella's evil stepsister Anastasia and the local baker, and between two fact cats, the appropriately named Lucifer and the pompous Pom Pom.
I remember the original and classic Cinderella, so was skeptical to see its sequel. After all, "happily ever after" is rarely a precursor to a story full of intrigue.
The idea of the mice making a storybook is clever, playing on the fact that Cinderella originates as a book (kids these days might recall such contraptions) and is a classic fairy tale.
I was disheartened by the smooching between Cinderella and the Prince. It seems strange to see my perfect childhood princess lip-smacking with Prince Charming, especially in light of their otherwise innocuous love connection consisting of long glances and ballroom dancing.
Also, I miss when cartoon characters would break into song. Cinderella 2, aside from the Fairy godmother's theme song, opts for a soundtrack of pop music ala High School Musical variety. Otherwise, I liked the three short stories format, a definite must for younger kids.
Video: How's it look?
Widescreen (1.66:1) – enhanced for 16 x 9 TVs (the classic animation is crystal clear)
Audio: How's it sound?
French & Spanish Language Tracks
Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround Sound
DTS 5.1 Digital Surround Sound
Extras: What additional goodies are included?
- Race to the Royal Banquet Game (a game where you are a mouse trying to avoid two cats)
- Cinderella DVD Storybook (digital story book with an option to read-long, or just listen)
- "Musical Magic" f(a five minute featurette with interviews with the composer and singer Brooke Allison)
- "Put it Together" Music Video
Closing Thoughts
Cinderella 2: Dreams Come True is a sweet movie for younger kids. This movie doesn't cater to adults at all, so parents be warned; all the sweetness could give you a cavity.
Review brought to you by our friend Anh. Anh Chu is a writer, preditor (tv speak for producer/editor) and not actually a bodily function like her name implies. You can reach her at choochoochoo@hotmail.com.
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