Cruella Movie Review: A Fashionable Revenge Tale

"Cruella is a stylish and action-packed revenge tale that will have you on the edge of your seat from start to finish"

Description:

Step into the enchanting world of 'Cruella,' a spellbinding tale set against the vibrant backdrop of 1964 England. Embark on a captivating journey alongside Estella, a young and exceptionally gifted individual with an innate flair for fashion. Her distinctive black and white hair sets her apart, yet this remarkable trait invites ostracization, cultivating in her a defiant spirit and an enigmatic edge. The narrative unfolds with Estella's poignant bond with her mother, Catherine, who encourages her to embrace victory and presents the intriguing notion of 'Cruella'—a persona to outshine. However, tragedy strikes when Estella's pursuit of acceptance leads to a fateful event at the grand Hellman Hall, setting her on a tumultuous path of self-discovery.

A decade later, the world witnesses the evolution of Estella, now a skilled artisan in thievery, partnered with the street-savvy Jasper and Horace. Together, they navigate the underbelly of society, honing Estella's fashion prowess amidst their crafty disguises and loyal companionship with Buddy and Wink, their trusty dogs.

In 1974, fate leads Estella to the gates of Liberty department store, marking a turning point in her life. Denied the opportunity to showcase her talents, Estella's path intersects with the authoritarian yet iconic Baroness, a towering figure in haute couture. This encounter catapults Estella into the upper echelons of the fashion world, sparking a series of events that unravel long-held secrets and ignite a relentless pursuit of truth and justice.

Driven by an unquenchable thirst for retribution, Estella assumes her alter-ego, 'Cruella.' With audacity and flair, she commandeers the spotlight at the Baroness's Black and White Ball, orchestrating daring heists and challenging the norms of high society. Cruella's audacious fashion statements, chronicled by the society columnist Anita Darling, propel her into the limelight while raising eyebrows and discomforting her confidants. Amidst the lavish opulence and thrilling escapades, Estella's journey to unravel the Baroness's secrets unfurls. Revelations about her past, including the discovery of her true lineage and a startling connection to the Baroness, shatter her perception of reality and compel her to confront her deepest fears.

As Estella navigates the labyrinth of deceit and intrigue, a dramatic sequence of events culminates in a breathtaking fashion show, a heist within the heart of a fashion house, and a climactic confrontation at the Baroness's charity gala. 'Cruella' presents an epic narrative that traverses the corridors of ambition, revenge, and the pursuit of identity. Join Cruella on an exhilarating odyssey—a tale of resilience, transformation, and the indomitable spirit that defies conventions. Unveil the enigmatic layers of Estella's persona as she carves her name into the annals of fashion history, leaving an indelible mark on a world that once shunned her uniqueness.

Movie Trailer:

My thoughts:

As an audience member, stepping into 'Cruella' was akin to embarking on a thrilling journey through the vibrant streets of '60s London. Emma Stone's portrayal of Estella's transformation into the audacious Cruella was nothing short of mesmerizing, drawing me deeper into the narrative with each captivating scene. From the dazzling visuals to the intricate costume designs, the film painted a vivid picture of Estella's evolution from an ostracized youth to a fearless fashion icon. Beyond the exhilarating heists and unexpected alliances, 'Cruella' delved into the complexities of identity and family dynamics, unraveling shocking truths that added depth to the storyline. It wasn't just a cinematic spectacle; it was a powerful narrative that celebrated the beauty of embracing individuality and finding strength in self-acceptance.

Interesting facts:

Stone underwent a dramatic transformation for the role, including bleaching her hair platinum blonde and dyeing it black. She also wore custom-made costumes designed by Jenny Beavan, who won an Academy Award for her work on the film.

The film's makeup artist, Nadia Stacey, used prosthetics to create Cruella's signature widow's peak and pointy chin

The film's sound designer, Ren Klyce, created a unique soundscape for the film that includes the sound of Dalmatian puppies barking.

The film is a prequel to the classic 1961 animated film "One Hundred and One Dalmatians." It tells the story of how Cruella de Vil, one of Disney's most iconic villains, became the evil dog-hating fashionista she is known as today.

The film's soundtrack was also a success, featuring original songs by various artists, including Florence and the Machine, Nicki Minaj, and Hailee Steinfeld.