Lives up to its Enchanted title well

Rating: 8/10 (19 April 2008)

This movie has it all: a cleverly playful script, a talented ensemble cast playing appealing characters, an array of wonderful songs in its score, a pleasant story to tell, and just a whole lot of fun.
It's vintage Disney, who have retold many classic fairy tale stories about princesses falling in love and getting married, getting the better of an unpleasant witch who is trying to do them in, and living happily ever after. Now they take a turn poking some satirical yet affectionate fun at their own formula. The movie remembers that the heart of fantasy is for the nice character to have their happy ending, and it takes you on a great ride to get there. Amy Adams is splendid as the typical fairy tale land princess with the frilly dresses with big shoulder things (and lots of forest creature friends) getting shot through a magical portal to modern day New York. Her sweet and naive character is immediately endearing, and as she spreads her optimism, sentimentality, and good will to strangers, inspiring them all; it's really a sweet thing to see. I love the way the song in Central Park is choreographed; funny and touching all at once. Be on the lookout for Prince Charming's encounter with a fire-breathing bus; brilliant silliness.
The film remembers to dole out lots of happy endings to almost everybody, a nice touch. A very fun and entertaining movie which can appeal to a wide audience.