Introducing a New Twist on a Classic Tale: The Ugly Stepsister
Norwegian director Emilie Blichfeldt breathes new life into the Cinderella tale with her dark and macabre first feature, The Ugly Stepsister. Unlike Disney’s repetitive live-action remakes, Blichfeldt’s interpretation offers a fresh and twisted take on the classic story.
The story follows Elvira, portrayed excellently by Lea Myren, as she competes with her stepsister Agnes for the attention of the Prince. This twisted version explores the costs of beauty, pushing the boundaries of traditional fairy tales into a realm of gruesome horror while still maintaining a sense of empathy.
Drawing inspiration from the Brothers Grimm version of the tale, Blichfeldt’s debut stands out from other recent horror adaptations of beloved stories. The film delves into themes of self-mutilation and the lengths one will go to achieve societal standards of beauty. Through a series of unsettling and grotesque scenes, Blichfeldt masterfully crafts a narrative that is both chilling and thought-provoking.
By shifting the focus from Cinderella to a stepsister, Blichfeldt challenges viewers to sympathize with a character typically portrayed as a villain. Lea Myren’s portrayal of Elvira effectively captures the character’s struggle for acceptance and love, even at the cost of her own well-being.
With stunning cinematography and a haunting score, The Ugly Stepsister transports viewers to a dark and twisted world where beauty comes at a high price. While the film may lean heavily into the macabre, Blichfeldt’s skillful direction ensures a captivating and well-crafted debut.
Premiering at the 2025 Sundance Film Festival, The Ugly Stepsister is set to be released by IFC Films/Shudder, offering a fresh and unsettling take on a timeless tale.
Source link
