Cinderella, 3 Stars

This is a lovely, sumptuous, slow-moving film. Ever After (which I recommend) successfully took a few liberties with the story. This movie is closer to the original story, while making the female characters stronger than Disney's animated version.

Cate Blanchett (Robin Hood [the one with Russell Crowe]) is mesmerizing and dominates each of her scenes. Lily James (TV's Downton Abbey) works hard, is lovely, and does an adequate job but might be miscast? Helena Bonham Carter (Les Miserables), as the fairy godmother, is wonderful once again - her roles and delivery seem to be getting stronger each time out. And I liked Sophie McShera (also Downton Abbey) - I think we should see more of her in future.

The gold coach deserves a mention on its own - it is beautifully done.

There is delightful humour throughout. I'd see it again (and likely will, often, with my grandchildren).