Descendants: The Rise of Red owes everything to Brandy’s Cinderella

Descendants: The Rise of Red owes everything to Brandy’s Cinderella

As a lifelong Disney enthusiast and avid gamer, I cannot contain my excitement about Disney’s latest addition to the Descendants universe – “Descendants: The Rise of Red“! But what truly thrills me to the core is that this new movie officially recognizes Brandy’s Cinderella as the definitive version in the Descendants universe.


As a passionate gamer and avid fan of Disney’s Descendants series, I’m thrilled about the latest addition to this captivating universe: “Descendants: The Rise of Red.” This new movie not only continues the exciting saga of the kids from our beloved Disney heroes and villains but also establishes a significant milestone for Cinderella fans.

As someone who has spent countless hours watching and analyzing various adaptations of Cinderella over the years, I can confidently say that the 1997 version is hands down the best one out there. This opinion isn’t just based on some casual observation or random preference, but rather a result of my dedicated exploration of this classic fairy tale.

As a devoted fan, I’d like to share my perspective on Iscove’s “Cinderella.” This isn’t your typical Disney Channel Original Movie (DCOM). Instead, it’s a made-for-TV production that graced our screens through ABC’s Wonderful World of Disney. The film initially received a mixed reception upon its premiere, but over the years, it has evolved into a beloved classic, often referred to as “Brandy Cinderella.”

Descendants: The Rise of Red owes everything to Brandy’s Cinderella

Iscove adopted an unbiased attitude towards selecting actors based on their race for the production of Cinderella. Brandy Norwood assumes the role of Cinderella, while the royal family is multiracial: Paolo Montalban portrays Prince Christopher, Whoopi Goldberg plays Queen Constantina, and Victor Garber acts as King Maximillian. The ensemble is exceptionally talented: Bernadette Peters delivers a remarkable performance as the wicked stepmother, and Veanne Cox and Natalie Desselle, who play the stepsisters, exhibit flawless comedic skills. Although it may be somewhat exaggerated at times, this over-the-top style aligns perfectly with the genre’s nature. Each cast member seamlessly blends into the magical realm of Cinderella, just as a glass slipper fits perfectly on its rightful owner’s foot.

In this stunning world portrayed, Cinderella’s cruel stepmother and sisters flaunt sequin-drenched gowns, with oversized puffy sleeves and towering feathered headdresses. The castle exteriors are adorned with intricate murals that swirl around the walls, while lilacs bloom lavishly, adding to the Art Nouveau elegance of every fixture. Rather than shying away from the elements that breathe life into a stage production, as some musical theater adaptations do, the filmmakers of Cinderella chose to celebrate them instead.

As a devoted fan of the classic fairy tale, I’m thrilled about the unique spin on Cinderella and the Prince’s bond in the 1997 version. Critics may dismiss their instant connection at the ball as unrealistic, while some purists frown upon modern adaptations that attempt to explain it away with a strong female lead. However, this interpretation strikes the ideal balance. It preserves the enchanting romance while delving deeper into their relationship, making it more captivating and relatable than other versions have done before.

Descendants: The Rise of Red owes everything to Brandy’s Cinderella

Montalban and Norwood perfectly embody the enchanting allure between their characters. Each one is captivating individually; she’s gentle and unassuming, yet harbors grand dreams in solitude. He possesses an undying conviction that their union transcends mere convenience, yearning for a profound connection. Their chemistry is electric – giddy, anxious, and infatuated. The movie breathes the magic of a real-life fairy tale love story.

Cinderella is the timeless fairy tale adaptation that brings the story to life with enchantment and joy. It doesn’t make the narrative more somber, but rather accentuates the magic and allure of “happily ever after.” By adding depth while preserving the original charm, it set the stage for captivating Disney Channel Original Movies like Descendants. In essence, Cinderella acts as the loving grandmother to the Descendants series, inviting us into a world where faith in fairy tales is unwavering.

Cinderella (1997) is available to stream on Disney Plus.

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2024-07-18 16:49

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