THE GLASS SLIPPER
1955

"The Glass Slipper" is a modern interpretation of the classic fairy tale. And it's a good one. Leslie Caron is Ella, a girl almost destroyed by the death of her mother and the lack of understanding shown by her insensitive stepmother and haughty stepsisters. The local villagers are likewise indifferent to her, and her spirit is in danger of being broken as a result. She is despised by everyone, and mistreated by her step-mother and step-sisters. Out feeling miserable one day, Ella meets a handsome young man, who falls in love with her. He is really Prince Charles, the son of the Duke, but he tells her he is the son of the cook, and invites her to a great ball at the Duke's castle. A strange woman who lives in the mountains befriends Ella, and dresses her up so she can attend the ball. She goes, and is a great success, but must run out at midnight. In her haste, she drops a single glass slipper... Will the prince find her? What do you think?

One of the best versions of "Cinderella" that has ever been filmed. Leslie Caron gives a splendid performance as Ella. Michael Wilding also does a good job as Prince Charming. Estelle Winwood is hilarious as a kleptomaniac "fairy godmother". Elsa Lanchester does a fine job playing the wicked stepmother. The supporting cast gives good performances also, including Keenan Wynn as the prince's valet, and Amanda Blake and Lisa Daniels as the wicked stepsisters. This version is also highly original. Caron's Cinderella tries to make friends, but is laughed at. Winwood's godmother is a bookish and well-read person. Superb direction by Charles Walters (LILI, also starring Caron), and includes two fantasy ballet scenes! A film for the whole family! Recommended.

CAST
Leslie Caron ... Ella
Michael Wilding ... Prince  Charles
Keenan Wynn ... Kovin
Estelle Winwood ... Mrs. Toquet
Elsa Lanchester ... Widow Sonder
Barry Jones ... Duke
Amanda Blake ... Birdena
Lisa Daniels ... Serafina
Lurene Tuttle ... Cousin Loulou
Liliane Montevecchi ... Tehara

Director: Charles Walters

RUNNING TIME: 93 minutes