
Ella Enchanted
Seen it?2004 | 96 min | Family, Fantasy, Comedy
Why it’s a Weeknight Watch
It's still drawing plenty of interest, but middling reviews (50% on Rotten Tomatoes) and a lukewarm 6.5 out of 10 from audiences held it back. Fine if it's on; don't plan your night around it.
Based on critics, audiences, awards, box office and buzz. Details below.Is it for you?
- Who'll love it
- Made for anyone who wants a laugh, fantasy fans and families. If you loved The Devil Wears Prada, start here.
- The mood
- Light and funny, feel-good.
- The pace
- Breezy, at 1 hr 36 min.
- What might put you off
- Nothing much: an easy pick for most people.
Ella lives in a magical world in which each child, at the moment of their birth, is given a virtuous "gift" from a fairy godmother. Ella's so-called gift, however, is obedience. This birthright proves itself to be quite the curse once Ella finds herself in the hands of several unscrupulous characters whom she quite literally cannot disobey. Determined to gain control of her life and decisions, Ella sets off on a journey to find her fairy godmother who she hopes will lift the curse. The path, however, isn't easy -- Ella must outwit a slew of unpleasant obstacles including ogres, giants, wicked stepsisters, elves and Prince Charmont's evil uncle, who wants to take over the crown and rule the kingdom.
How it earned its rating
- CriticsBelow par
50% on Rotten Tomatoes
- AudiencesBelow par
6.5 out of 10
- AwardsNot counted
Awards data unavailable, so this isn't counted
- Box office & staying powerSolid
$27 million worldwide on a $31 million budget; still draws a steady audience long after release
- Buzz & cultural impactStrong
About 297K people sought it out in the past year
Trailer
More like this
The Devil Wears PradaSaturday SpecialAlso stars Anne Hathaway, in another comedy, and a Saturday Special.
The Spiderwick ChroniclesWeeknight WatchAnother family film, though it's more of a weeknight watch.
The Green MileFriday Night FlickAnother much-loved fantasy film.
ElfSaturday SpecialAnother comedy, and a Saturday Special.
How the Grinch Stole ChristmasSunday Safe BetAnother family film, and a safe bet for a quiet night.
Cast & crew
Directed by Tommy O'Haver
- Anne HathawayElla
- Hugh DancyChar
- Cary ElwesEdgar
- Aidan McArdleSlannen
- Joanna LumleyDame Olga
- Lucy PunchHattie
- Jennifer HighamOlive
- Minnie DriverMandy
- Eric IdleNarrator
- Steve CooganHeston (voice)