“Steps is an original retelling of Cinderella that is both funny and heartwarming. However, it doesn’t really add anything to the original story and even ends up undermining it. You’re left wondering what the point of it all is.”
Steps is Netflix Animation Studios’ latest film. It is loosely based on the fairy tale Cinderella by Charles Perrault. The film is directed by Alyce Tzue and John Ripe, it stars the voices of Ali Wong, Amanda Seyfried, Stephanie Hsu, Peter Dinklage and Bette Midler. Steps premieres on November 20 on Netflix.
STORY
Steps is a retelling of the classic fairy tale Cinderella, putting an entirely different spin on the story. This time, we follow Lilith, Cinderella’s supposedly evil stepsister. Except Lilith isn’t evil; she’s just rebellious. In this version, Cinderella isn’t bullied by her stepsisters. In fact, it’s Lilith and her sister Margot who are the victims. Nevertheless, Cinderella isn’t a villain either; she’s still the kind-hearted person we all know. Instead, the villainy comes from her rival, Priscilla. This mean-spirited girl is the true villain of the story. And this retelling also throws trolls into the mix.
In many ways, this film is a parody of fairy tales. It pokes fun at elements of the original tale: Cinderella loves cleaning with her broom, the fairy godmother is a bit incompetent, the prince is quite stupid… But at the same time, it’s very much a fairy tale itself and works as one. It’s certainly an original retelling, and it’s quite funny and heartwarming.
However, you’re left wondering what the point of it all is, and there’s nothing that quite justifies its existence. It doesn’t really add anything to the original story and ultimately ends up undermining it. It tries to do something different through its parodic elements but ends up following the conventions of a traditional fairy tale anyway. The execution feels clumsy. The film takes place in an old-fashioned fairy-tale setting, yet modern speakers and rave lights suddenly appear during one scene, feeling completely out of place with the rest of the film. There’s also a machine in the film, but its design fits the setting and makes sense, whereas the speakers and lights don’t. It’s little things like these that make you question some of the creative choices behind the film. Kids will undoubtedly have fun watching it, but the rest of the family may quickly grow tired of it.
VOICE CAST
Furthermore, Steps boasts a great voice cast. Ali Wong is excellent as Lilith, bringing a rebellious edge to her voice that perfectly suits the character. Amanda Seyfried feels like a natural fit for Cinderella, while Bette Midler is an obvious choice for the fairy godmother. Peter Dinklage is equally good as the villain’s henchman, and Daniel Radcliffe is hilarious as the stupid prince.
VISUALS & SONGS
The animation style is somewhat reminiscent of Disney’s 3D animation while still maintaining its own identity. This stylistic choice further reinforces the film’s nature as a parody of fairy tales. Moreover, the film makes excellent use of popular songs. “Sabotage” by the Beach Boys plays during a chase scene, and it fits the moment perfectly. Then, “Beautiful Things” by Benson Boone accompanies the reveal of Gef, the sexy troll. I honestly couldn’t think of a better song for that scene. Finally, the film also features “I’ll Be There” by Jess Glynne during a montage sequence, where it works just as well.
VERDICT
Steps is an original retelling of Cinderella that is both funny and heartwarming. It works as a parody and tries to do something different, but ultimately ends up following the conventions of a traditional fairy tale. It doesn’t really add anything to the original story and even ends up undermining it. You’re left wondering what the point of it all is. Kids will certainly enjoy it, but the same can’t be said for the rest of the family.
Steps premieres on November 20 on Netflix.
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