Ever After: A Cinderella Story that starred Drew Barrymore is one of my favorite movie of all time. This 1998 movie is inspired by a well-loved fairy tale. But unlike the story, the Cinderella in this movie is not at all a damsel-in-distress. She is spunky lady who can take a good aim using apples, who can carry a man on her back, and who knows how to fight with a sword.Honestly, I've watched this movie countless of times yet it makes me feel I watched it for the first time.
The movie tells the story of Danielle de Barbarac. Her father died and left her to the haughty stepmother, the Baroness Rodmilla, and her two stepsisters, Marguérite and Jacqueline.
Jacqueline was kind and gentle. She is so different from the Baroness and Marguérite who are so evil and who want nothing but to inflict pain to our lovely Cinderella.
Danielle meet Prince Henry during his escape from the castle. Thinking it was a thief who stole her father's horse, Danielle aimed apples that unseat the prince from the saddle. It wasn't a good encounter.
There is no fairy in this story. There is nothing magical here. But there is Leonardo da Vinci who unlocked the door for Danielle. Thanks to him, Danielle was able to attend the ball and see his prince charming. Danielle looks so amazing in her mother's gown, with the wings and the glittering make-up. It's my favorite part of the movie.
The Baroness ruined the night and told the prince that Danielle was a servant. She never gives up hope to have the prince for Marguérite. Confused about the true identity of Danielle, Prince Henry gave her up. But of course, there is no fairy tale that doesn't end with "happily ever after". So, despite of all the troubles that Danielle went through, she still ended up into the arms of the prince.
This is a feel good movie. Call it a chick flick, whatever. I love it.
