A Comparative Analysis: How Does the 2021 Cinderella Movie Differ from the 1950 Classic?

The tale of Cendrillon ou la petite pantoufle de verre (Cinderella or the little glass slipper) dates back centuries, with its origins rooted in ancient folklore. However, when it comes to modern adaptations, the versions created by Disney stand out. This article compares the 2021 movie adaptation of Cinderella with the 1950 classic, highlighting the differences and similarities between the two.

Origins and Variations

The original Cendrillon by Charles Perrault in 1697 is just one of thousands of versions of Cinderella existing in literature and folklore. Perrault’s version, while significant, is far from the first depiction of the story. The earliest known written variant is from ancient times, implying a rich cultural heritage.

Disney's Adaptation

Disney’s 1950 version of the tale is a faithful adaptation to Perrault’s story. It captures the essence of the moral lessons and the overall plot with minimal changes. The 2015 remake also adheres closely to Perrault’s narrative, including the overall message of forgiveness. However, it makes some cosmetic changes, such as introducing talking mice, helpful birds, and a dog, which were not present in the original.

2021 Adaptation

The 2021 adaptation of Cinderella sticks closer to Perrault’s story. It eliminates the talking animals, but retains the key narratives such as the forgiveness subplot. The plot is dressed up and refined, focusing on the core theme of kindness and forgiveness while maintaining the integrity of the original moral tale.

Comparison of Key Elements

Beauty and Appearance: In Perrault’s version, Cinderella’s beauty is not explicitly described, nor are the stepsisters’ ugliness. They are described as petty and cruel, whereas Cinderella remains characteristically kind. The 2021 adaptation emphasizes Cinderella’s beauty, which was not present in Perrault’s original.

Role of the Father: In Perrault’s story, the father is not dead but does not play a significant role in the plot. In the 2021 adaptation, the father is largely absent, reflecting a more modern interpretation.

Stepsisters' Behavior: In Perrault’s version, the stepsisters are petty and cruel. In the 2011 and 2015 adaptations, they are made more malvolent, with the 2011 version introducing a malicious housecat. The 2021 adaptation focuses on their malicious behavior, particularly with the shamed stepmother.

Other Adaptations

Brothers Grimm's Version: The Brothers Grimm published a version called Aschenputtel (meaning 'ash fool'). This version features a "wishing tree" and a white bird. There is no fairy godmother, and the plot involves a craving for a lentil-free ash tree. The stepsisters in this version mutilate their feet to fit the golden slipper, a far cry from the glass slipper in Perrault’s story.

Conclusion

While both the 1950 and 2021 adaptations of Cinderella draw heavily from Perrault’s original story, they introduce various changes that make these versions distinct. The 2021 adaptation emphasizes more on the characters' personalities, particularly the beauty of Cinderella and the cruelty of the stepsisters, while maintaining the core themes of kindness and forgiveness.

Through these adaptations, the story of Cinderella continues to enchant new generations, showcasing the enduring appeal of this timeless tale.