“Cinderella” opens in wide release across the U.S. this weekend and after seeing it twice, I can honestly tell you that it is a dose of family magic not to be missed. 

I think it is fair to say that virtually every Disney fan regards Walt Disney’s original 1950 “Cinderella” to be one of the greatest fairy tales to ever grace the silver screen. It is everything a fairy tale should be–romance (even if it is antiquated by today’s standards), a beautiful ball gown, gorgeous hand-drawn animation and so much more. When a live action “Cinderella” was announced I was nervous at first. How on earth could anyone ever make a movie to compare with the iconic original? When I found out that Lily James and Sophie McShera from Downton Abbey and Cate Blanchett had been cast in the film and Kevin Branagh was slated to direct, I knew we were in for something good. And it is… for so many reasons.

The new “Cinderella” isn’t a retelling of the 1950 version; it is a celebration with slightly more modern messaging and more character development than the original. It is beautiful in every regard–from the costumes to the sets to life mantra told to Cinderella early on in the film to “have courage and be kind.” I was spellbound in both screenings I attended; I felt like a little girl all over again. Romantic and enchanting, I actually found my mouth agape completely wrapped up in this amazing film.

The big question on every parent’s mind has been whether or not they can take young children to see Cinderella. Here is the lowdown for families:

• “Cinderella” has a running time of one hour and 45 minutes, although with the “Frozen Fun” mini feature before the film, you are looking at more like two hours in the theater.
• There is NOTHING scary in the movie and while Cate Blanchett is truly wicked as the stepmother, she and the stepsisters will not leave any children cringing from fear.
• The messaging in “Cinderella” has been updated from the original. Trust me when I tell you that your kids will leave talking about Cinderella’s “have courage and be kind” mantra. Kindness and doing what is right is Cinderella’s super power and this is a virtue that all children can learn from. This movie also provides a bit more context for the love between the prince and Cinderella and emphasizes that she does not need to be saved and if they are to be together that he must love her for who she is. Another beautiful message about love for boys and girls.
• The movie also deals with issues like the death of a loved one, jealousy, keeping promises and the importance of treating animals well–all of which can provide parents teachable moments after the film.
• Due to the incredible acting and breath-taking costumes and scenes, most children will be quickly captivated by the movie and in my opinion children as young as three will likely be able to sit through the film.

I, for one, cannot wait for my boys to see the movie. I look forward to discussing its important themes afterward and reliving the beauty and grandeur of this film for a third time.

Want to learn more about Cinderella? Check out my other posts about the movie.

• 13 fun facts and secrets about the costumes in Cinderella straight from the stars and costume designer.
• My experience walking the red carpet at the Cinderella premiere.
• Download our free Cinderella printables–ideal for framing in a child’s bedroom.