Ella Enchanted

Synopsis

Ella Enchanted, released in 2004 and starring Anne Hathaway, is a whimsical fantasy film based on Gail Carson Levine's novel. The story follows Ella, a young woman cursed with the obedience spell, compelling her to obey any direct order. Determined to break free from this relentless control, she embarks on a daring journey filled with magical creatures, wicked stepfamily members, and courtly intrigues. Along the way, Ella discovers her own strength, courage, and the power of choice in a fairy tale land where nothing is quite as it seems. Blending humor, adventure, and romance, the film offers a fresh and modern twist on classic fairy tale tropes.

Cast

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  Anne Hathaway

  Ella

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  Hugh Dancy

  Char

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  Cary Elwes

  Edgar

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  Aidan McArdle

  Slannen

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  Joanna Lumley

  Dame Olga

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  Lucy Punch

  Hattie

Reviews

Ella Enchanted received mixed reviews from critics and audiences alike. On Rotten Tomatoes, the film holds a 51% approval rating, indicating a split consensus; while some praised the film's charm and humor, others found it lacking in depth and sophistication. The site's consensus notes that the movie "offers a lighthearted, if uneven, fantasy romp with a strong lead performance from Anne Hathaway." On IMDb, the film has a 6.3/10 rating based on user reviews, suggesting moderate satisfaction among viewers who appreciated its family-friendly appeal and Hathaway's charismatic portrayal of Ella. Metacritic assigned a score of 53/100, reflecting mixed or average reviews, with some critics commenting on the movie's predictable plot and simplistic screenplay but recognizing its entertaining qualities for a younger audience. Overall, while not a critical darling, Ella Enchanted is often regarded as an enjoyable, uplifting fantasy film, especially for fans of fairy tales and those seeking a light, magical movie experience.