Some "enchanted evening" is here for young and old romantics alike

Rating: 8/10 (24 November 2007)

Gisele (Amy Adams) lives in a little cottage in her animated world. Her only friends are the tiny woodland creatures who help her around the house. Yet Gisele insists that a handsome prince will come, as she sings about her "true love's kiss". Prince Edward does come soon after and they fall in love, fairy-tale style. The next day, as Gisele is coming to the castle in a wedding gown, ready for the ceremony, her soon-to-be mother-in-law, Queen Narissa (Susan Sarandon) disguises herself as a hag and pushes Giselle down a "wishing well" to the land where "there are never any happy endings". That would be New York City, of course. (The Queen does this so she does not have to give up any regal power). Gisele comes up through a manhole and into heavy traffic and confusion. But, someone soon comes to her rescue, a handsome lawyer named Robert (Patrick Dempsey) and his little girl, Morgan. Robert is about to marry a no-nonsense lady named Nancy and he is utterly befuddled by Gisele, who breaks into song on a walk in the park and who does not even have a driver's license. Even so, he can't help but notice her beauty and her sunny nature. Can fairy tales happen, even in Manhattan? This is an enchanting, lovely movie from the talented Disney company. First, it has a nice combination of animation and real life that works seamlessly well. Secondly, it has some new, wonderful songs by Alan Menken and Stephen Schwartz, including "True Love's Kiss", "Happy Working Song", and "That's How You Know", some of which should be nominated for Oscars. And, thirdly, the cast members are very well-chosen, too, with Adams making a beautiful, songbird princess, Dempsey showing he is a natural choice for a "real world" prince, and Susan Sarandon giving a great turn as the evil queen-stepmother. Naturally, the production is enchanting, too, with gorgeous costumes, scenery, and cinematography. Therefore, if you are seeking a nice, family film for the little princesses at your house or are one of the true romantic souls of the earth, do not delay another afternoon. Some "enchanted evening" is here this holiday season, just for you, at the nearest cinema multiplex.