Forever and Ever

Rating: 7/10 (2 December 2007)

Greetings again from the darkness. A Disney fairy tale like the old classics ... only this time brought to life! Beautiful princess to be, charming, handsome (though somewhat daft) Prince, evil witch/step-mother, bumbling henchman, lovable little creatures, all wrapped up in a fantastical love story.
Amy Adams (so wonderful in "Junebug") is magic on screen as the pure-hearted fairy tale princess-to-be who comes to life ... oddly enough in Times Square! Ms. Adams has the bright-eyed, innocence to capture the wonderment and excitement of the damsel in distress who just wants someone to be nice to her. I would love to see the Academy recognize her performance because it is worthy. Her movements and hand gestures and sparkling eyes and upbeat voice are just perfect for the role. Of course, a nomination couldn't possibly happen because this is a sweet film aimed at kids.
FINALLY ... Susan Sarandon is perfectly cast! She is not believable as a loyal wife or loving mother or love interest or fact finding reporter. As an evil witch/step-mother she has found her niche. I absolutely love her scenes as she first arrives in real life. James Marsden ("Hairspray") is also very good as the slightly goofy, but well-meaning Prince come to save the poor damsel. Patrick Dempsey is along for the ride as the single dad who befriends (and maybe more!) the lost princess. Watching his face during the Central Park musical scene is pretty funny.
This is one that kids and parents and grandparents of all ages can enjoy. Certainly it is corny, but it is also good natured and warm-hearted ... two things we could all use a little more of.