Once Upon a Grown-Up Time
By Sarah Carlson
May 17, 2007
Those who missed out on "Pan’s Labyrinth" while it was in theaters now have the chance to view the film on DVD thanks to its Tuesday release. But did the film leave you hankering for more adult-tailored fairy tales? Us too. If you’re looking for your cinematic happily ever after, here are a few options.
“Pan’s Labyrinth”
This pitch-black fable is the story of innocence marred by violence as told against an eerie mythological backdrop. The skillful performances (especially by Ivana Baquero as the film’s heroine, Ofelia) and artful direction by Guillermo del Toro elevate “Labyrinth” beyond fairy tale and into the realm of pure movie magic.
“The Princess Bride”
Most everyone watched this adventure as a kid — probably when home sick from school like Fred Savage’s character. The story of giants, swordsmen, true love, death, miracle pills, the Cliffs of Insanity and rodents of unusual sizes is a treat for all ages — as are the memorable quotes. Inigo Montoya’s father speech, anyone? Inconceivable!
<<“Big Fish”
Tim Burton’s fantasy-filled tale of family ties and father-son relationships warmed even the coldest heart. Will Bloom (Billy Crudup) never believed the tall tales his dad, Ed (Albert Finney/Ewan McGregor), told, but he returns home to visit Ed when he’s dying of cancer. Piecing together Ed’s life stories, Will soon learns there’s truth in his dad’s myths.
“Secretary”
“Fairy tale” probably isn’t the first thing people think of when they view this 2002 film about a secretary (Maggie Gyllenhaal) who is devoted to her boss (James Spader) — especially when it comes to the more unprofessional aspects of their relationship. But the film plays like a revisionist “Little Red Riding Hood” ... but in this case, the heroine is all too happy to be the prey.
“Ladyhawke”
This ’80s-tastic flick follows Mouse (Matthew Broderick) as he escapes from a dungeon and teams up with Captain Navarre in the woods. What’s with the hawk on Navarre’s arm? Oh, it’s Michelle Pfeiffer. Thanks to a curse, she and the captain are split: she’s a hawk by day; he’s a wolf by night. Bummer.
“Lady in the Water”
When Cleveland (Paul Giamatti) rescues a woman (Bryce Dallas Howard) from his apartment complex’s pool, he has no idea of the mysterious world he’s about to be pulled into: She’s a character from a bedtime story — named Story — and is a “Narf.” What can we say? It’s an M. Knight Shyamalan flick.
“Ever After”
A feminist reworking of “Cinderella” that is also full of references to Leonardo da Vinci (who woulda thought?), this delightful romantic dramedy is a testament to how much we still love a good happily ever after. Starring Dougray Scott and Drew Barrymore at her most charming, “Ever After” is a sweet treat for fairy tale enthusiasts.
Coming soon: “Stardust”>>
This fairy tale, based on the book of the same name by Neil Gaiman, tells the story of a young man who promises his beloved that he will retrieve a fallen star (Claire Danes) by entering the magical realm. Chock full of stars (of the human variety), “Stardust” promises to be an enchanting movie experience adults can enjoy. The film is set for an Aug. 10 release.
-- Erin Steele and Sarah Carlson
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Comments
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Posted by: Spender on May 17, 2007 4:40 AM
I'm a big fan of your brother's good work and a former Abilene resident (seven years worth) so I relate to much of what you're writing.
The reason why I'M writing is to thank you for your talent and taste, your wit and charm and to hope that your stay at the Reporter News is just a brief step on to much bigger and better things. Tremendous work!
Posted by: Spender on May 17, 2007 4:49 AM
By the way, 'Secretary', 'Princess Bride', 'Ladyhawke' and 'Big Fish' are among our favorites and I'm looking forward to 'Stardust'.
Good work.