Movie Details
The Ugly Stepsister is a chilling reimagining of the classic Cinderella fairy tale, told from the perspective of the often-maligned stepsister—but with a horrifying twist. This dark fantasy horror film delves into jealousy, obsession, and the monstrous consequences of vanity and cruelty.
In a grim, gothic kingdom where beauty is power, young Mirabel—the so-called "ugly" stepsister—lives in the shadow of her stunning stepsister, Cinderella, and her viciously ambitious mother, Lady Tremaine. After years of abuse and neglect, Mirabel discovers a dark secret: an ancient, cursed mirror that promises to grant her deepest desire—beauty beyond compare. But the mirror demands a terrible price.
As Mirabel descends into madness, her transformation warps her body and soul, turning her into something far more monstrous than anyone could imagine. Meanwhile, Cinderella, unaware of the horrors unfolding in her own home, prepares for the royal ball, where she hopes to escape her oppressive life. But the night takes a gruesome turn when Mirabel’s envy erupts into violence, leading to a blood-soaked climax that redefines the meaning of "happily ever after."
Actor: Rachel Zegler (Snow White), Gal Gadot (Queen), Andrew Burnap (Jonathan).
Director: Marc Webb
Release: March 21, 2025 (USA)
Country: United States of America
Views: 13M
Tagline: The fairest of them all returns."
Rate: PG (for fantasy violence and thematic elements)
Themes & Style:
- A Gothic horror twist on a beloved fairy tale, blending psychological terror with body horror.
- Explores themes of beauty standards, female rage, and societal oppression.
- Visually striking, with a timeless yet eerie aesthetic—think Pan’s Labyrinth meets The Brothers Grimm (2005).
- Features practical effects and grotesque transformations reminiscent of classic dark fantasy films.
Why It Stands Out:
Unlike traditional retellings that paint the stepsisters as mere villains, The Ugly Stepsister delves into the tragedy of their existence, making Mirabel a sympathetic yet terrifying figure. This isn’t just a fairy tale—it’s a nightmare where the real monster isn’t a witch or a beast, but the desperation to be loved.