Yet another remake of Disney’s “Cinderella,” directed by Kay Cannon, has been released in theaters and on Amazon Prime Video. This movie musical’s star-studded cast includes singer Camila Cabello, who plays Ella in her acting debut, Idina Menzel as the evil stepmother, Nicholas Galitzine as Prince Robert and Billy Porter as the fairy godmother. 

While Amazon’s remake slightly strays from the original, it follows the story we have all heard countless times fairly closely. The modern movie musical follows Ella, an aspiring fashion designer, who lives with her stepsisters and stepmother. When the prince announces he is holding a ball in hopes of finding a bride, Ella finally gets the opportunity she has been waiting for, which is to showcase her dresses.

Although the remake is full of humor, romance and music, it doesn’t come close to topping Disney’s original. 

The vibrant and unique costumes that are featured are one of the best parts of this movie. The dresses worn by the nobility at the ball are aesthetically pleasing. Idina Menzel’s costumes are particularly extravagant with their vivid colors and elegant style.   

Featuring a slew of well-known songs, including “Somebody to Love” by Queen, “Material Girl” by Madonna and “Am I Wrong” by Nico and Vinz, this movie maintains the audience’s attention with its grand musical numbers. “Million to One” and “Dream Girl” were the only two original songs created solely for the remake, but both are beautiful emotional ballads that make the movie worth the watch. 

The acting is mediocre at best and lacks the substance and depth found in Disney’s 2015 remake. Camila Cabello’s acting is not terrible by any means, but is also unimpressive in its believability which does not come as a surprise given her lack of experience. 

Overall, this new take on the “Cinderella” story is a good time, but does not quite live up to the standards of its predecessors.