The Metropolitan Opera: Cinderella

About This Movie

So, this one is really interesting—a New Year’s Day performance of Massenet’s Cendrillon, directed by Laurent Pelly, although the director's name isn't widely known. The atmosphere is very enchanting, almost like stepping into a fairy tale. The whole thing is trimmed down to 90 minutes, which keeps the pacing brisk, and I think that works well for the story. Isabel Leonard as Cinderella brings a certain lightness to the role, with her mezzo-soprano voice really capturing the character's transformation. The practical effects are charming, nothing too flashy, but they enhance the story nicely. There's a new English translation, which makes it accessible, and it feels fresh, even if it’s a revival. It’s a lovely production for anyone who appreciates opera.

Abridged adaptation offers a unique pacing. · Isabel Leonard shines as Cinderella. · Practical effects enhance the fairy tale atmosphere.