Enchanted

Rating: 5/5

An original and magnificent twist on classic Disney, Enchanted is charming, magical, and incredibly fun.

In the animated land of Andalasia, a young maiden named Giselle (Amy Adams) is waiting to meet her prince so the two can share true love's kiss. When Prince Edward (James Marsden) is chasing a troll through the woods, he hears the melodic voice of Giselle, and vows to find the young maiden and make her his bride. With the help of her woodland creature friends, Giselle is ready to run to the alter, when a mysterious old woman who stops her suggests that she make a wish in the fountain before saying "I do". Though reluctant at first, Giselle begins to make a wish, but to her surprise she is pushed in, and is sent spiraling through space and time.

Once on the other side of the fountain, Giselle realizes that she has been sent to a strange land with bright lights, bustling people, and loud mechanical beasts. Little does she know, she has been transported to New York City. Fearing this unfamiliar place, Giselle desperately searches for Prince Edward's castle, only to stumble into a man named Robert (Patrick Dempsey) and his daughter Morgan. With their help, Giselle will try find her way home to Andalasia.

As far as movies created by Disney, Enchanted is definitely one of their most creative. Not only does this film contain an inventive storyline of a cartoon princess who finds herself real world, but it also cleverly includes hints and references to past Disney movies in a subtle, but innovative way. Enchanted is the epitome of why fairytales can be so exciting and delightful.

As the lead role, Amy Adams is able to give Giselle all of the expected characteristics of the classic bubbly Disney Princess, but does so in a respectful and not overly satirical manner. With this role, Adams proved that she is not only a brilliant actress, but a very talented singer as well. Her singing added a nostalgic element to the film, as did her speaking voice. She definitely increased her pitch when talking, giving Giselle the perfect princess tone to add to her already entertaining and energetic performance.

When Giselle arrives in New York, she encounters many things that she has never experienced before, and that is a main piece to what makes Enchanted such a great movie. The creators behind the film knew how to add this element in, but not over do it. Clearly, when Giselle is running around the city for the first time, she is going to be bombarded with the unexpected, and her reactions would be more of a frightened nature rather than bewildered. As the film progresses, Giselle becomes more curious than afraid, and it really helps in the development of her character.

Enchanted is truly a love letter to Disney. It is easily enjoyed by lifelong fans and new ones alike. For those who have been watching Disney's animated work for many years, Enchanted will be a fun and nostalgic adventure. If you are new to the films created by Disney, than you will be met with a wonderful world full of music, magic, and fun. No matter who watches, it will be practically impossible to resist the effortless charm of Enchanted.