December 14, 2008

Enchanted (2007)

Disney's 2007 animation/live action foray, Enchanted requires total suspension of disbelief. Yes, it's a film with an intended audience that includes children but since the plot pulls things into the "real world" the logic gets quite messy.

The beginning is very tongue-in-cheek as we're introduced to the cartoon maiden, Giselle, who is looking for her magical "true love's kiss". In fact, for a moment you may wonder if you're watching movie by Disney or by the ex-Disney employees over at DreamWorks. After conferring with woodland creatures, the prince arrives of course and in under 5 minutes it's their wedding day.

The prince's step-mother (Susan Sarandon) doesn't like the idea that this new girl could be replacing her in the monarchy. So she pulls a Snow White's old lady bit and then pushes the girl down a well. Next thing we know, Amy Adams is popping out of the sewer in real-world New York City wearing a 40-lb dress. She's reluctantly taken in by Patrick Dempsy's Robert, a boring lawyer, and his daughter, Morgan. Soon Giselle's Prince (James Marsden) follows her to the real world to rescue her and the Queen follows to make sure he doesn't succeed.

The concept was an interesting idea. The songs by veteran Disney composer Alan Menken and Broadway veteran Stephen Schwartz are catchy. Amy Adam's "animated" princess mannerisms are spot on down to the way she holds her fingers. Kids probably won't mind all of the film's faults. But overall, this Disney film mocks everything Disney's ever done before. Not everything Disney's done is laughable and the rest... well, mocking that is other people's job.

Rating: 2/5
Recommended for: Kids and only kids

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