Ipromised myself I would not compare Snow White and the Huntsman to this year's earlier Snow White movie, Mirror Mirror, but I can't help myself. There is no comparison! Snow White and the Huntsman is a far superior film in all aspects from script to cinematography to acting; it is a joy to watch.
Snow White and the Huntsman is an updated script of the classic tale Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, first written in 1812 by the Brothers Grimm. The opening five minutes of the film sets the tone by showing something new, creative and visually pleasing.
The movie stars Kristen Stewart (Twilight Series) as Snow White. Her performance is mediocre at best. If you want to see Kristen's acting ability rent the movie "The Cake Eaters." It is worth the rental and you will appreciate her performance. Oscar recipient Charlize Theron (Monster) plays the role of the Evil Queen, Ravenna, who killed Snow White's father. You will hate this queen as evil oozes through her pores, although in a few scenes she was a little exaggerated. Chris Hemsworth (Thor, The Avengers) plays The Huntsman. Sam Claflin (Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides) plays the prince.
In this version, we learn of Snow White and the prince's childhood friendship. The eight dwarfs (yes, eight) are excellent and deliver some of the comic relief. It was a pleasure to see veteran actor and Oscar nominee Bob Hoskins (Mona Lisa, Who Framed Roger Rabbit) light up the screen with his performance as Muir, the lead dwarf. I was disappointed that little people did not portray the dwarfs.
The cinematography is astonishing as it captures the breathtaking landscape of the United Kingdom. The castle is stunning and the dark forest is gloomy. First-time director Rupert Sanders created a great mix of fantasy, fairytale and action. Snow White and the Huntsman is grim with a PG13 rating due to the violent battle scenes and the graphic transformation of the Evil Queen. The little ones should stay at home and enjoy Disney's 1937 classic Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs.
Derek Zemrak is a Film Critic, Film Producer and Founder of the California Independent Film Festival. You can follow Derek on Twitter @zemrak for the latest Hollywood news.
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Lamorinda Weekly, Moraga CA