Pitchforks: 3.5/5
Starring: Julia Roberts, Lily Collins
Rated: PG
Release: March 30, 2012
The new film adaptation of the famous Snow White fairy tale, “Mirror Mirror,” features a storyline that has a bit of a twist. It is still about a princess who falls victim to an evil queen, but unlike the original version, this Snow White doesn’t need a prince to save her.
The movie opens with a witty, sarcastic narration delivered by the Evil Queen (Julia Roberts), who tells how Snow White (Lily Collins) fell under control of the Queen, who fears the princess will surpass her beauty.
We then meet the timid and quiet Snow White, who is sheltered by her stepmother and unaware of the poverty that has stricken the townspeople in her kingdom.
Desperate for a new husband to replenish the money she has squandered on lavish clothing and parties, the Queen meets young Prince Alcott (Armie Hammer) and decides to make him marry her.
The Prince is smitten by Snow White, though, frustrating the Evil Queen’s plans. The comedic and desperate battle by the Queen for his affections thus ensues.
The scenery, architecture and costumes in the movie make for a visually appealing and whimsical setting. Though the film aims at engaging a younger age group, “Mirror Mirror” is packed with amusing dialog and jokes for more adult audiences as well, such as a notoriously drunk dwarf and another that is gluttonous.
Perhaps the what makes the film stand out compared to other adaptations is how Snow White blossoms into a strong woman who takes action and outsmarts the Evil Queen rather than bites the apple and falls asleep.
For big Snow White fans, the storyline of “Mirror Mirror” may disappoint, as many of the characteristic details of the film aren’t in the traditional story.
For one, the seven dwarfs in this version are a bunch of rogue bandits who rob people that wander through the woods.
Also, an unexpected character receives true love’s kiss that breaks the spell in this adaptation.
The cast works well together in “Mirror Mirror,” with Julia Roberts making a hilarious and overly dramatic Evil Queen. Lily Collins, who has had experience playing more serious roles like the daughter in “The Blind Side,” fits well as the seemingly innocent, yet cunning Snow White.
“Mirror Mirror” is an ideal movie for young teen female audiences, but it will keep anyone laughing as well.
Reach the reporter at newlin.tillotson@asu.edu
Follow us on Twitter or like us on Facebook. Click here to subscribe to the daily State Press email newsletter.
