User reviews

Boy, I'm glad I saw this movie before reading the comments here. I found this film to be delightfully funny and sweet. sure it's utter predictable but so what? Yes, in the 'fractured fairy tale' department it's a far cry from the genius of Princess Bride or Shrek, but it's an entertaining enough 90 minutes. The effects are decent (they can't all be Lord of the Rings perfect) and I found myself laughing frequently.

I'm certainly glad I was completely unaware that this was based on a book as most of the negative comments here seem to be from people who complain about changes. I can say, that not knowing the original, this story flowed just fine. Certainly, if one were to over-analyze the plot one could come up with innumerable ideas based on the idea 'if she must always obey, why doesn't this happen?' but that's not really the point here is it? it's a fairy tale for young girls. My partner's 18 year old little sister (who made me watch this as I never would have on my own) loved it, and I had to admit that I liked it enough to give it a thumbs up 7 out of 10 rating.

It seems that many, many commentators disliked this movie because it wasn't at all like the book. Fair enough, I suppose, but movies seldom are. In any case, I haven't read that book, and was blissfully unaware that this film was supposedly adapted from one. I found it surprisingly cute. Many of the campy things hit the mark, like the "medeival modern" anachronistic setting, reminiscent of The Flintstones cartoon wherein it was filled with modern things constructed from prehistoric materials; and the modern songs transposed to the time setting herein. That last was a bit like Moulin Rouge, which annoyed me at first, but then grew on me. I don't believe that I've seen this Anne Hathaway before, but she is intriguing. Her vivacity and wide smile remind me a bit of Julia Roberts. Can't say that I was much impressed with Hugh Dancy or Aiden McArdle. Minnie Driver was most charming as the incompetent fairy, and Vivica Fox was quite amusing as the lush fairy. It's too bad that Parminder Nagra's part was so small, as she always lights up a screen. And Cary Elwes couldn't hide his amusement with the material as he munched on the scenery. I say check this out, if you aren't going to throw a fit over the book.

The story of young Ella who was given the gift of obedience is a very frustrating movie, it should be wild and charming and funny and the best thing since sliced bread, or if not sliced bread then The Princess Bride, but some how it doesn't quite work as whole.

The cast is game, the special effects are good and the direction seems to be mostly on target, but somewhere along the way the movie decided to be too hip, too happening, too many things all at once. Its a comedy, fantasy, adventure, musical and a few other things all at the same time. It has timeless humor and humor that is in danger of dating very badly. It feels some times like a TV movie for kids and at other times something that should be on the big screen for everyone. It doesn't seem to know what it wants to be. Somehow I think that there were too many people with too many ideas (good ideas) but no one to say too much is a bad thing.

I like this movie a lot, the pieces much more than the whole, but I can't help but wanting to beat up everyone involved in it because this should be so much better.

Six out of ten. Wait for video.

Love it, made me laugh do to stupid jokes and witty ones. Many people are too thick to just get some punchlines and the ingenious of the concept the movie has.

I love this movie. Lots of people don't. I was annoyed that it was not like the book, but it is still a great movie. It is super fun to watch and you will probably enjoy the movie.

A small child is "blessed" with a gift of obedience, and has to do what she is told.

She goes on a small adventure to lift this curse, and also fix whatever affects the kingdom.

For more than one reason, it reminded of Mel Brook's Robin Hood: Men in Tights.

It feels kind of cheap and a bit rushed. But it is very well produced! In general, it's more cartoonish than expected, and has a highs chool movie drama feel. With interesting CGI (specially that great-looking snake for the early 2000), music set pieces, very good production design (the soldier's armors) and a rather scattered plot, it's enough to entertain.

More than anything, the cast of known actors kept me interested. The roles given to the charming Hugh Dancy and the graceful Anne Hathaway weren't as bad. And Cary Elwes is always a treat! Even as a comical villain (which reminded me of Prince John from the animated Robin Hood Disney movie), he is always so good.

Watch it if curious.. otherwise, you aren't really missing out much.

I had so much fun watching this movie, a piece of light hearted fun that everyone can enjoy. *If* they remember the opening lines of the movie; this is a fairytale. And is therefore not to be taken seriously, it should be watched for the pure enjoyment of getting away from the daily humdrum.

I have seen this movie twice and both times the audience was literally buoyed by the fun of the movie, though I must say the best parts and lines come from Uncle Edgar(a deliciously evil Cary Elwes) and Heston the snake(the slimy voice of Steve Coogan is wonderful). That is not to say that the two leads(Anne Hathaway and Hugh Dancy) are not bright and funny in their parts, they are. Only that the wonderful and memorable lines come mainly from the more evil characters.

Joanna Lumley (as the evil Dame Olga) and Minnie Driver(one of her best yet, possibly only beaten by her surprisingly good turn in "Phantom of the Opera") are also great in their minor roles, providing colorful characters and not just filling in screen time. Aidan McArdle(Slannen the Elf) is wonderful comic relief each and every time he appears, as is Lucy Punch as the horrid Step-Sister and chief fan-girl(shudder). Eric Idle, Jeniffer Higham, Jimi Mistry and Parminder Nagra are also memorable, particularly Jimi as Benny, Eric as the Narrator and Parminder as Ella's best friend, though I think Parminder's talents are woefully under recognized in this film and I would love to see her in more main roles like in "Bend it like Beckham".

But I digress.

Hopefully those watching this movie will remember the fun it is supposed to be and not fall into the trap of over analyzing this piece of light-hearted happiness.

Baby Ella (Anne Hathaway) was given a 'gift of obedience' by Lucinda the fairy (Vivica A. Fox). It is more of a curse which the unreasonable fairy refuses to undo. She must do everything she's told to do. It's really unreasonable that nobody notices this curse. Are the townfolks really stupid?

When her stepsister (Lucy Punch) notices the curse, Ella has no choice but to leave and try to undo the curse. In the meanwhile, Prince Charmont (Hugh Dancy) has fallen for her.

Anne Hathaway is cute and lovely. She and Hugh Dancy make a cute pair. But every time somebody does the curse and can't figure it out, it gets really annoying.

If you don't get the snark disguised as cheesiness, I feel for you. A great soundtrack and fun performances with caricatures for all the parts makes it unique while still keeping the fairytale ending

We got free tickets from our grocery store and I decided to take my 16 year old and her friend. We laughed so hard at times we cried. Come on, who can't be in hysterics when Ella breaks out into a Queen song with giants as her backup singers.

Although we have the book, I've never read it, but I've got to compare it with the movie. I never dreamed it was like this.

It's such a "twisted" movie. Cary Elwes plays a Sydly Wisplash sort of king with his extreme over acting ... he must have had such great fun doing this movie. Yeah, it's kinda dopey here and there, but there's always a surprise just around the corner.

This movie was gifted with a spell of fairy tale which was likable. From the beginning Ella Enchanted was good – and all thanks to the beautiful Anne Hathaway who seemingly sparkled. Great work of escapism, such that though it's stupidity can be considered, it is shadowed by its modernism and it's attempt to drive the audience into attention by it's sarcastic humor present at certain desirable instances. Anne Hathaway stole the show – there seemed to possess an invisible halo on her making her the most preferable Ella. However I did ruminate over the fact that is that all Anne Hathaway can play- this character had almost cloning gestures as her character of Mia in The Princess Diaires – so is that how much her talent can expand? Well as for the other cast member - There was a casting perfection as taking into consideration Cary Elwes, Minnie Driver and Vivica Fox, all were matched perfectly to their designated roles. In conclusion I would not suggest this movie to grown ups- as they would certainly NOT enjoy this step out of reality – however this would be a great movie for kids and may be pre teenagers and if you are an Anne Hathaway fan like me – well than don't miss this.

Admittingly, when one reaches a certain age they are supposed to let go of the notions that life can actually be a fairy tale and that "happily ever after" can be more than just words in a book. But isn't there a little girl in every woman who still believes that she can win the heart of her Prince Charming? "Ella Enchanted" is a movie for all of those who still believe in the fantasy (even just a little bit!) and all of those who like to escape to an alternate reality where dreams really do come true. It is full of innocent love and obvious comedy with a few good musical numbers thrown in for good measure. The movie-goer is invited to put on their rose coloured glasses and view the world as it might be if we did indeed live between the pages of a book. What would our taxis look like, or our malls? And how could you marry the notion of being a strong-willed, independent woman with being a soft-hearted, sweet girl who's falling in love? Anne Hathaway continues to elude a screen presence full of spunk and charm. Hugh Dancy is suitably rugged and handsome (in a teenage girl's dream kind of way). And it is a real treat to see Cary Elwes as the cartoon villian, oozing charisma and character, the complete opposite (although just as charming and handsome!!) as his heroic turn in "The Princess Bride". All in all, any fan of the romantic genre or the fairy tale comedy (yes, indeed the elements of "Shrek" are palpable!) will love to carried away and certainly this movie "won't go breakin' your heart."

A silly, farcical spoof on fairytale romances. But nothing that can't be put right by an ensemble song and dance number at the close (Anne Hathaway has some serious vocal skills). I give this film a 7 (fun spoof) out of 10. {Fairytale Romance}

Like a lot of movies on here you'll find numerous 1/10 reviews for Ella Enchanted which are, frankly, ridiculous and unfair. It's also one of those increasingly rare movies in this day an age, a non-animated so called "family" movie completely free from sexual references and bad language . It's clearly aimed at The Princess Bride vibe, without ever really reaching the heights of comedy and charm of that movie. However, it's a good try, and not a bad way to spend a rainy afternoon with your kids. Look out for Lucy Punch as Hattie, the selfish step sister, who's scene stealing performance is so gloriously over the top that just her facial expressions gave me the giggles.

Ella Enchanted is a charming film that's good for the whole family. In this storybook fairy tale gone wrong, Anne Hathaway plays Ella, a girl given the magical gift of "obedience" by her fairy godmother at birth which turns into a curse because she can't refuse any command, even from those who abuse this fact. To try to regain control of her life, Ella goes on a quest to get the "gift" removed, meeting ogres and giants and a dreamy prince (Hugh Dancy) along the way. The plot sounds stupid but the movie is a lot better then I expected it to be. Its hard to take the film serious at some points though and sometimes its not exactly clear what the plot is. I have never read the book so I can't compare but my friend said that they change a lot of things. The cast, for the most part, is pretty good with the best being Anne Hathaway but she needs to start picking different roles to avoid being a typecast. I thought the acting from Hugh Dancy was horrible and it would have been better if they would have gone with someone else. Vivica A. Fox, Cary Elwes and Minnie Driver all have small roles and all do good job. The film is of course cheesy at some parts and all the gimmickry can become annoying after awhile. The film is pretty predictable but that shouldn't turn you away .The film is only 96 minutes long so it isn't a real punishment to watch the film. There are some things about the movie that didn't make sense and there are also a lot of pointless characters that could have been used without. In the end I think kids will really like Ella Enchanted Rating 7/10 if you have never read the book then you have a better chance of enjoying it. However, if you have read the book then you will probably hate it {like my friend did} because they change a lot.

I thoroughly enjoyed this film, it was clever, original and entertaining. The interesting opening scenes were great as they transported you to the fairytale world. I was very happy to see Eric Idle was the narrator and Anne Hathaway was brilliant and instantly likable as Ella, with Hugh Dancy the perfect handsome prince. The Elf (another familiar face- Dudley Moore in 'Not Only But Always') is wonderful as the sidekick. I also thought the story was very good, it was slightly predictable at first, but then there were some interesting twists, where I think the usual fairytale storyline was changed to great effect. The way the Fairytale land echoed aspects of home were amusing, with wooden escalators, taxi carriages… In a way, I liked it more than Shrek, because of the fact that it was less 'polished' and maybe more British. I would definitely recommend 'Ella Enchanted' to anyone who wants a fun and entertaining film.

The only thing that this movie really has going for it is that its a bit funny, though a lot of the humor is pretty cheap and unoriginal. The story is poorly executed, partially due to the random bits of narration and the over reliance of characters being dumb. The acting is ok. Some of the actors are terrible, a lot of them are pretty bad. There are a lot of obvious green screens in this movie. The set designs and costumes and effects aren't that great. Its a fun movie, but overall I wouldn't recommend it.

If you are seeing this movie because of the book with which it shares its title (and not much else), spare yourself.

Had this been an original film, not based on anything, I might have enjoyed it somewhat as a bit of silly fun. But it continually advertised its self as a film translation of a book that is near and dear to my heart, a book which I had been longing to see made into a well-done film.

Unfortunately, when it comes to being a translation of the book, the movie is pure garbage. They've taken the most basic premise of the plot, the names of the characters (in most cases, ONLY the names), and discarded just about everything else. The characters are, for the most part, shallow reflections of themselves (if they're even recognizable at all), and the plot has become silly, cheesy, and full of pointless and totally unnecessary pop-culture references. Gone are the interesting and well developed character interactions, and Ella's curse, which in the book was a constant source of true emotional and physical discomfort, is, with the exception of its use as a catalyst in the end of the film, mainly exploited as comic relief. This was a story that would have made a wonderful movie on it's own merits. It didn't need to be put through the MTV Hollywood wringer.

And no matter what anyone says... you can't call something "Ella Enchanted" if it has no stair rail.

This movie is beautifully written, cast and put together. I've seen this many times, and every time I find something new to smile and laugh at. This movie is great for all ages. No matter how old you are, it appeals to the child within. The biggest surprise is how great Anne Hathaway sings.

Ella Enchanted is a pleasurable surprise, a superior family film that is destined to entertain both children and adults.

One day Anne Hathaway will look back on Ella Enchanted and admit publicly that it was the most embarrassing movie she's ever made. How could she not? This movie's a joke! I can understand that perhaps while reading the script, a person could visualize that this movie would turn out to be one of those dashing period pieces. I wasn't expecting a Merchant-Ivory film (Ella Enchanted comes from a kid's book after all), but this movie turned a perfectly good book into a 1970s nightmare. During the last few minutes, the actors inexplicably start a song and dance number to Elton John's Don't Go Breakin' My Heart and Anne Hathaway dances around in a miniskirt and go-go boots. I shouldn't have been surprised at the disco-themed ending because throughout the movie, even the special effects looked like they were done in the 1970s. Though I must admit that Mary Poppins cleaning up the nursery in 1964 looked more convincing than the giants in Ella Enchanted. I feel sorry for Anne Hathaway (she should have left this movie to lesser-talented starlets), but I weep most for Hugh Dancy, the handsome British actor who plays the prince. It's sad that in his first American movie, this classically trained stage actor is wearing leather stirrup pants and singing an Elton John song. Oh, the shame!