Der gläserne Pantoffel

"The Glass Slipper" is a modern interpretation of the classic fairy tale. And it's a good one. Leslie Caron is cast as Ella, a girl almost destroyed by the death of her mother and the lack of understanding shown her by her insensitive stepmother (Elsa Lanchester) and haughty stepsisters ("Gunsmoke's" Amanda Blake, and Lisa Daniels.) The local villagers are likewise indifferent to her, and (as narrator Walter Pigeon dryly observes), her spirit is in danger of being broken as a result. Enter local "madwoman/kleptomaniac" Estelle Winwood, who, simply by reaching out to the defiant girl, gives her confidence and hope. Yes, she's the film's equivalent of the fairy godmother, and she is wonderful in the part. Although the prince (a mature Michael Wilding) leaves a bit to be desired in the ''Charming''department, he is perfectly all right otherwise. Keenan Wynn is wasted as his companion, but Barry Jones is amusing as the prince's father, and Miss Lanchester makes a suitably nasty stepmother. what of Leslie Caron? Well, she goes from neglected little spitfire to luminous princess effortlessly, and her appearance at the ball is a treat. The ballet sequences do tend to slow the film down, but Miss Caron did begin her career as a dancer, and she has a grace few others could match. The music by Bronislau Kaper perfectly enhances the mood, as does the modest but tasteful production. Strangely enough, this could be called the original "Ever After", because, except for a delightful twist at the end, the tale is told as if it could have happened. All in all, a captivating version of "Cinderella", and one which will linger in your memory.