Confessions of an Ugly Stepsister

I just have to say that the person that commented before obviously had no idea that this movie was based on the book written by Gregory Maguire! I mean...why are they talking about Snow White??? The book and movie do put a different spin on the whole "Cinderella" idea and tell the story from the Stepsister, Iris's point of view. There are no singing mice, or golden pumpkins, but if you loved the book like I did, or are bored of hearing the same Cinderella story over and over, you'll love this movie.

Spwysteve: But what was the confessions of the ugly stepsister? And who was the ugly stepsister? Why wasn't this called Confessions of an Ugly Stepmother?

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Iris was the "ugly stepsister". This film shows a more realistic and complex version of the fairy tale, while it still mainly follows the original plot. You don't watch the movie, thinking it's exactly the same as the fairy tale, and then be disappointed its not. I think the movie was very cute, and more realistic than the fairy tale. I loved the role of casper.

Much of the darkness has been stripped or made shallow for this movie, but overall, this was a charming version of Maguire's story. The acting was great (Stockard Channing RULES!), the scenery & cinematography was lovely, and the writers tried to stay true to Maguire's examination of the truth behind beauty versus ugliness. (And of course, neither of the stepsisters were *ugly*.)

I trully enjoyed this adaptation. What a refreshing look at something that has been done to death! I though the leading lady was perfect, and just what the character called for. Azura Skye is no beauty, but as the script says, she has a face that makes you look, and then look again.

Told from the view of the "Ugly" Stepsister Iris, we are asked to indulge in the probability that Cinderella was a little brat and not the innocent she was always assumed to be. Nice comic relief, coupled with a good script, strong story and decent actors.

A must see for any romantic! Oooh, and check out the young painting assistant/love interest to Iris, Casper, played by the very yummy Matthew Goode. A good relaxing, no demands kinda movie. The only Cinderella story that rivals it, and wins, is ever after!

After reading the Gregory Maguire book, I didn't think that anyone could translate so rich a story and group of characters to the screen - I was wrong! Wonderful adaptation of the story and great casting and sense of authenticity about the period. Brilliantly acted and great passion for the story...