Adam's performance sparkles, though her American accent does occasionally peek through, twanging in a few unfortunate moments.Dempsey, too, provides a solid performance, even if somewhat reminiscent of a toned down McDreamy (Grey's Anatomy). Spall, however is the most delightful pitiful sidekick since Muttley. Keep a particular eye out for his scene in Buona Notte, the Italian restaurant.

Disney References are scattered throughout the film with cameos by voice actresses for well-known Disney princesses including Paige O'Hara (Belle), Jodi Benson (Ariel), and Julie Andrews (Mary Poppins, Clarisse Renaldi); musical interludes that reference Snow White, The Little Mermaid, and Sleeping Beauty, to name a few; fairy tale fashions; and a surprising use of Giselle's animal whispering abilities. More interesting, though, is the director's and writer's attempt to work within fairy tale motifs. Giselle's hair and clothing reflect the state of her character, as do Prince Edward's;

But, for all those that love Enchanted, Disney has come under fire for its portrayal of Giselle, who is giggly, sweet, and skilled at old-world household tasks (making her clothes every morning) and Nancy (Menzel), Robert's (Dempsey) would-be fiancee. Why? Well, Giselle "wins" the man while Nancy "settles" for second best, giving up her career to marry, and moving to the animated world of Andalasia to become a fairy tale princess, and some see Giselle as a very real threat to instilling egalitarian views in children. It can be argued, though, that each woman, rather than "giving up" something, is gaining something in their happily-ever-after: a trueness to self. Nancy is portrayed as an unhappy romantic, still looking for something (which she finds), while Giselle, first shown as a very two dimensional (pun intended) character who grows into a well-rounded woman.

Overall, Enchanted is a solid Disney film, worth viewing. It takes a light-hearted view of the Disney fairy tale, it laughs at itself, and it has what we all wish for — a happy ending.

[1] Barnes, Brooks. "The Line Between Homage and Parody", The New York Times, 2007-11-25.
———

Recommended viewing:

Like fairy tale films? Here are a few others worth a look.

Labyrinth—Everybody know rock stars and cinema don't mix, but glamrocker David Bowie steals the show in this 80s film. When Sarah (Jennifer Connelly) is left to baby sit her younger brother, she wishes her brother would be stolen away by goblins--until her wish comes true. The she has to find her way through the perilous labryrinth to effect a rescue.

 

 

Mirrormask—written by Neil Gaiman and designed by Dave McKean, Mirrormask follows Helena, a girl working in the family circus, as she attempts to run away and into a real, normal life. But things don't go to plan, and Helena soon finds herself on a journey through the aptly named Dark Lands. Like Neil Gaimain? Pick up a copy of Stardust (the illustrated edition is stunning) and keep and eye out for the upcoming film adaptation of Coraline.

 

Tales from Europe, The Story of Little Mook (dubbed)—one of Germany's most successful children's films, The Story of Little Mook follows the adventures of Mook as he finds magical items and earns himself a position in the Sultan's court--until three courtiers plot his downfall, that is. But with a little bit of fairy tale magic - kindness, cleverness, and a pinch of magic - Mook saves himself, and helps his friend to win the princess. Enjoy The Story of Little Mook? Be sure to check out Tales From Europe, The Three Golden Hairs, along with others in the series.

[contents]