Based on one of my favourite fairytales 'Snow White and Rose Red', with the most well-known version of that story coming from the Brothers Grimm, 'Schneeweisschen und Rosenrot' was seen with high expectations. High expectations already had from seeing many fairy/folk tale films and adaptations recently and being very impressed, starting with those made in Russia and then just recently with those made in East Germany.
Starting with 1950's 'Heart of Stone' and closely followed by Deutsche Film DEFA's most famous production 'The Singing, Ringing Tree' from 1957. Both are wonderful films in their own right and great introductions to German fairy/folk tale adaptations. Like those two, 1979's 'Schneeweisschen und Rosenrot' is another DEFA production and another film based on fairytales made in East Germany. It is not quite as good as those two, with a close personal favourite being for 'The Singing, Ringing Tree', but nonetheless it is still very well done and for me it is one of the better and most underseen adaptations of 'Snow White and Rose Red'. All three are proof as to why more German fairy/folk tale films (from Deutsche Film DEFA particularly) from East Germany should have been made and why those that exist should be better known.
There are imperfections. Do also feel that at times the music was a bit repetitive and shrill, though there were parts where it was very nice like in the lovingly done opening credits. There are a few dull stretches here and there, with it in particular taking its time to get going.
Although it was inevitable considering the age and that the budget doesn't look like it was a large one, the bear is awfully fake-looking and its at times obviousness takes away from the mystery of the story somewhat.
Conversely, on the most part 'Schneeweisschen und Rosenrot' is very nicely done visually. The production design is suitably rustic and colourful and didn't look simplistic, while it is beautifully shot in colour that never looked too drab or garishly gaudy. Once again, appreciated again that any effects were not overused and abused and just let the story and characters shine. The music wasn't perfect, but it didn't feel at odds with what was going on and fitted while not always enhancing, it is particularly lovely in the opening credits.
Writing doesn't become too cheesy or camp, while being fun enough to stop the treatment of the story from being taken too seriously. When it got going, the story had immense charm and was engaging, it was easy to follow without being too simple and nothing childish or too scary. It is a respectful as an adaptation as is the spirit, even if at times dramatically it could have had a little more kick in spots.
Found myself engaged by the characters, with easily identifiable leads and the magician mountain spirit is suitably sinister and mysterious without resorting to scenery-chewing. The acting is never less than reasonable and mostly fine actually, Julie Juristová and Katrin Martin are charming in the title role while the juiciest performance comes from Hans Peter Minnetti.
Overall, very well done and underseen. 7.5/10
