Cinderella

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TheMovieSearch R The 1965 version of Cinderella is a charming time capsule — a product of its era that carries a certain nostalgic grace but feels dated when viewed through a modern lens. Watching it now, especially after growing up with the Brandy and Whitney Houston version, it’s almost impossible not to draw comparisons. The Brandy rendition elevated the story with energy, soul, and inclusivity, while the 1965 film feels much more restrained, polished, and traditional in its approach to both the music and the characters. The film itself is visually soft and elegant, very much in line with the television productions of the mid-60s. There’s a quaint theatricality to it — everything from the sets to the costumes feels as if it’s been lifted from a live stage play rather than a cinematic experience. That gives it a certain charm, but it also limits its emotional depth. The story is told in a very straightforward, almost reserved manner, which works for the era but doesn’t quite resonate in the same way today. One thing that does stand out, though, is the music. The songs are beautifully written and timeless in melody, showcasing the old-fashioned beauty of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s work. Yet, it’s hard to ignore how much more dynamic, soulful, and emotionally charged those same songs became in the 1997 Brandy version. The Brandy version made audiences feel every note, while the 1965 performance, though technically clean, feels a bit detached and overly refined. Part of that detachment comes from the portrayal of Cinderella herself. The character’s voice and demeanor come off sharper and colder than expected — she lacks that warmth and vulnerability that make Cinderella instantly lovable. It’s not that the actress gives a bad performance, but there’s a certain stiffness in her delivery that feels mismatched with the story’s hopeful, tender spirit. The contrast becomes even more apparent when you think of Brandy’s portrayal, which brought a softness and sincerity that made her Cinderella unforgettable. That said, it’s important to appreciate what this version achieved for its time. It was ambitious, well-produced, and truly beautiful in the way it brought a fairy tale to life using the resources and style of the 1960s. The costuming and production design reflect the artistry of the era, and the musical direction is precise and classic in its execution. Still, as much as there’s respect to be given to the 1965 Cinderella, it’s hard to imagine returning to it for repeat viewings. It feels more like an artifact of television history than a film that continues to live and breathe with audiences today. The music remains its strongest element, but when stacked against Brandy’s modernized and emotionally rich interpretation, the 1965 film simply can’t compete. It’s a beautiful piece of nostalgia — graceful, well-intentioned, but lacking that spark that keeps the magic alive decades later. Rated 3.5/5 Stars •  Rated 3.5 out of 5 stars 10/16/25 Full Review Joel H While Disney's animated film is obviously the superior version of this classic fairytale, there's something quaint about this low-budget, made-for-TV Cinderella movie. Perhaps it's because of Lesley Ann Warren. She brings a sense of innocence to her role as Cinderella. And it doesn't hurt that she's a strikingly lovely woman. Or maybe it's because the sets and costumes look like something you'd see in a local community play. This movie isn't anything fancy, nor is it trying to be. This is a short and sweet interpretation of the Rodgers & Hammerstein musical that is enjoyable because of its simplicity. Rated 3/5 Stars •  Rated 3 out of 5 stars 11/07/23 Full Review Audience Member I'm sure people enjoyed this in 1965, but it doesn't stand out as the best production of Cinderella. It's kind of flat and lifeless. Lesley Ann Warren is good as Cinderella. The whole thing just comes across as old-fashioned. Rated 3/5 Stars •  Rated 3 out of 5 stars 01/27/23 Full Review Audience Member This movie, this movie is the most beautiful movies I have ever seen. I have three different Cinderella's. I am in need for another Cinderella made some time ago, I was just a child when my parents took us to the movies to see this movie and I am doing all I can to find it. Rated 5/5 Stars •  Rated 5 out of 5 stars 01/29/23 Full Review Audience Member This will always be a part of my childhood memories. I watched it every year with anticipation. Rated 4/5 Stars •  Rated 4 out of 5 stars 02/23/23 Full Review bill t So so easy to compare this to the 1957 version, so lets. Lesley Ann Warren is no Julie Andrews. Once you see Julie Andrews, you can never go back, I never have liked the Rogers and Hammerstein version, so it's hard to like this one at all. So I don't/ Rated 2.5/5 Stars •  Rated 2.5 out of 5 stars 03/30/23 Full Review Read all reviews

Cinderella

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