Michasi's Review

Summary - Really Great 4.5

This DVD release of a quality Disney film mixes classic animation with live action comedy, music, and romance extremely well while offering standard bloopers, deleted scenes, “making of” featurettes and an extra animal adventure. Just try not to enjoy yourself.

Acting - Great 4.0

Adams (Junebug, Talladega Nights) finally gets the high profile role she deserves while Marsden gets to showcase his singing voice and physical stamina. Several Disney related cameos and Julie Andrew’s narration provide the frosting on this appealing cake.

Film - Really Great 4.5

Filmmakers somehow keep each element fresh and don’t really overuse any cliché, situation or formula. Alan Menken and Steven Schwartz again team up for great songs that weave into the live animal special effects, camera magic, and CGI blending. Three Best Song Oscar nominations weren’t enough to win while other high quality film elements, like cinematography from Don Burgess, deserved nominations. All the filmmakers do a great job of incorporating classic Disney film moments that viewers will discover each time they watch this wonderful film.They expertly mix several filmmaking techniques with a rhythmic plot for one hour and 47 minutes. The home video extras aren’t too deep but enough to satisfy curiosity and interests in the high profile scene like the “Happy Working Song” sequence.

Edge - Tame 1.5

The plot does contain a few missteps like a predictable “romantic consolation prize” subplot and a shopping spree/forced girl bonding moment that echoes Pretty Woman.

Reality - Supernatural 3.9

Magical worlds and animated creatures abound in this fantasy while screenwriters also address the cynical views in the characters and references while producing several original moments amid the remediated material. Philip has a touching breakthrough scene with Giselle when he negates her seemingly delusional wishes of happiness so she doesn’t get hurt.

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