Hats Off to Hollywood: Cinderella
Duke: Well, looks like we’re stuck watching another one of these so-called classics. This time, it’s Cinderella, coming in at number 9 on AFI’s top 10 animated movies. A tale as old as time, full of singing mice and a fairy godmother waving her wand around like she owns the place.
Rex: "Patience is a virtue." Cinderella is a timeless story that has enchanted audiences since its release in 1950. It’s a classic tale of rags to riches, showcasing the power of kindness, hope, and perseverance. The film is based on Charles Perrault's 1697 fairy tale, which has been adapted countless times, but Disney's version remains the most iconic.
Duke: Yeah, yeah, a tale as old as time. But you know what’s really old? My bones. And sitting through this sugary sweet story wasn’t doing them any favors. The idea of talking animals and a magical fairy godmother turning pumpkins into carriages just doesn’t sit right with me. Back in my day, we didn’t need all that hocus-pocus to tell a good story.
Rex: "Hope springs eternal." Cinderella is more than just a fairy tale. It’s a testament to the enduring spirit of a young woman who, despite her hardships, never loses faith. The animation was groundbreaking for its time, using multi-plane camera techniques that added depth and dimension to the scenes. And let's not forget the memorable songs like "A Dream is a Wish Your Heart Makes" and "Bibbidi-Bobbidi-Boo," which have become part of the cultural lexicon.
Duke: I’ll give it to them – the animation was pretty impressive. Those Disney folks sure knew how to draw. But all that singing and dancing? It’s enough to drive a cowboy to drink. The stepmother and stepsisters were about as pleasant as a rattlesnake in a boot, and the prince? He barely had a personality. Just standing around looking pretty.
Rex: "Beauty is in the eye of the beholder." The beauty of Cinderella lies in its simplicity and charm. It's not just a love story but a tale of resilience and believing in one's dreams. The stepmother and stepsisters represent the obstacles that many face in life, while the prince symbolizes the reward of staying true to oneself.
Duke: You can keep your symbolism and rewards. I’m more interested in what’s real. But I suppose if you’ve got kids or grandkids, they might enjoy this flick. It’s got enough glitter and sparkle to keep them entertained for a couple of hours.
Rex: "To each his own," Duke. Cinderella continues to captivate audiences of all ages with its universal themes and enchanting animation. It’s a reminder that no matter how tough life gets, a little bit of faith and a dash of magic can make dreams come true.
Duke: Well, folks, there you have it. If you’re in the mood for a trip down memory lane or need to keep the little ones occupied, Cinderella might do the trick. As for me, I’ll be off searching for my hat.
Rex: "Until next time, folks, keep your hats on and your remotes ready! See you at the movies!"
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Do you have a movie list that you think Duke and Rex should review? Email us your suggestion at beastlybanterblog@gmail.com
About the Authors
Rex, who speaks in maxims, loves every movie and TV show, making him the perfect counterbalance to Duke. Rex is also known for rescuing an armadillo and celebrating both Christmas and Chanukah.


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