Remakes are far from necessary, especially when the original has already been remade countless times. This has never been truer than for “Cinderella.”  We’ve seen this character reincarnated on screen in films such as “Ella Enchanted,” “Ever After,” “Into the Woods,” and 1997’s Brandy led “Cinderella”.

Still the most recent “Cinderella” is the first to be a direct live-action remake of the original 1950 Disney classic.

With no twists and turns that plagued the recent “Sleeping Beauty” reimagining, “Maleficent,” “Cinderella” is instead a stunningly beautiful take on the classic tale.

The costumes, special effects, and acting allow the film to rise above the overdone story with stellar performances from Cate Blanchett as the deliciously wicked step-mother Lady Tremaine, Helena Bonham Carter in a brief, but memorable performance as the Fairy Godmother, and a breakthrough performance from Lily James as the titular character.

James provides the character with her typical sweet and goody two shoe charms, but also provides an underlying strength to the character that allows her to be a role-model to young girls around the world, up there with the likes of Elsa.

The film is perfect for audiences of all ages who want to relish in the magical world of Disney.