As I'm sure you've noticed, fairytales are "in" just now. Not only in the realm of books but in a rush of films and television shows.One of the things Bonnie Dee and I do in our adult fairytales is to "empower" the heroines of the story. I know other authors do the same in their takes. Passively waiting to be rescued by a handsome prince just isn't acceptable to most writers or readers any more! So I was quite surprised to come across some criticism on the web of the new films and tv shows as insulting to women. The argument seemed to be that the heroines had to "turn themselves into men" - ie warriors - in order to succeed. Or that women weren't represented at all, as in the series Grimm.
Now, I haven't actually seen the new films, like Miror, Mirror or Snow White and the Huntsman, or Grimm or Once Upon a Time, so I can't really comment! I would like to know your views though :).
So what are your favourites among the current screen versions, and why? Is there an older one that captures your attention more? Perhaps a classic, like Cocteau's 1946 Beauty and the Beast? Personally, I loved Company of Wolves (a highly imaginative and atmospheric take on Little Red Riding Hood) when it came out. And I thoroughly enjoyed the 10th Kingdom. What about you?
Marie
Alas, I haven't been watching fairy tale based movies or TV (spend too much time reading). I have noticed that Disney's latest "Brave" is making a more dynamic heroine this time around.
ReplyDeleteYes, she seems to be. I haven't actually seen that one yet either - thought it's set in Scotland, isn't it? :) - but this article criticised it too, for having the heroine fight, I think :). Maybe some people are just opposed the older fairytale ideal changing...
ReplyDeleteMarie