Ella Enchanted

In 2004 Anne Hathaway starred in the title role of Ella Enchanted, which though based on a book, seems highly derivative of other "meta" fairy-tale films like The Princess Bride and Shrek, and is anemic in comparison.

Hathaway's character is bestowed with a gift upon birth by a well-meaning fairy (Vivica A. Fox): she is required to obey every command given her. Her mother and aunt are powerless to reverse the spell, so little Ella grows up without much of a free will. The spell is kept secret so know one can use it to manipulate her. However, her mother dies and her father, oblivious, marries a wicked stepmother (who of course has two horrible daughters). Throw in a handsome prince, whose uncle, who has obviously read Hamlet, plots all sort of evil things. He's played by Cary Elwes, another reminder that The Princess Bride was a better movie.

Despite Hathaway's engaging performance (the camera absolutely loves her) this film is really of interest only to tween girls. It has many contemporary references, particularly with hit songs (Hathaway sings Queen's "Somebody to Love" and the film ends with "Don't Go Breakin' My Heart") and there is a running subplot about how the Prince is regarded as some sort of teen idol.

This film also made me wonder what happened to Minnie Driver. She was once nominated for an Oscar, but here she has a completely colorless role as Ella's aunt that could have been played by any obscure performer.