In most Disney movies, the spotlight is always on the hero or heroine but what about the villain? What if they had their own story of why they became a villain in the first place? Directed by Craig Gillespie, Cruella is a stylish but dark-live action origin story about the dog-napping villain from Disney’s 1961 classic 101 Dalmation.
This version of Cruella is far from wanting to kill and skin dogs. As the story unfolds, we see that she wasn’t actually cruel to any animal. The only fact is that she blamed the Dalmations for the death of her mother.
Set in 1970s London amidst the punk rock revolution, we follow a young, smart, and creative girl named Estella who is determined to make a name for herself in the world of fashion.
Along the way, she befriends a pair of young thieves and together they built a life for themselves in London. One day, Estella’s fashion sense caught the attention of Baroness Von Hellman, a fashion icon who is both elegant and terrifyingly posh. Their relationship becomes a course of events that causes Estella to embrace her wicked side and become fashionable, harsh, and revengeful Cruella.
The background story on Cruella explains a lot about her current behavior. She embodies everyone who is hungry for fame and power. At the same time, it shows how adamant she was in getting what she truly wants, even at a young age. Also, this movie stresses that the truth always triumphs. No matter how deep you hide truth or how many years it may have been, it will eventually come to light.
What can be said about Disney’s Cruella
I loved how the plot was unexpected. While watching it, I didn’t notice that she was an orphan and was actually an heir to the Baroness (can say the actual villain in this movie). I also like how mischievous and determined she was in getting things to work her way.
And if there is anything negative about this movie, I’d only say there are a tiny bit of dark elements like language, behavior, stealing, and punk-rock vibe but overall I think it is a good movie.
Overall, this movie is something out of the box. Every time the movie is about the good character, the hero, or heroine but nobody really talks about the villain. And giving the villains a story of their own makes it even more interesting.
For all those fashion lovers, Disney die-hard fans, and those looking for something besides a happy ending, then this movie is just for you. What are you waiting for? Grab your popcorn and enjoy!
Sources: Rotten Tomatoes, Walt Disney Studios