13 Modern Retellings of Classic Fairy-Tales

Beastly

A modern-day take on the timeless "Beauty and the Beast" tale, "Beastly" follows the journey of a New York teenager who is transformed into a hideous monster as a consequence of his own arrogance. This dramatic metamorphosis forces him to seek true love to break the curse. "Beastly" is a poignant exploration of inner beauty and redemption, captivating audiences with its heartfelt story.
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Once Upon a Time

Set in a fantastical town in Maine, "Once Upon a Time" intertwines the lives of familiar storybook characters who are trapped between two worlds due to a powerful curse. The series revolves around Emma Swan, who discovers her true identity as Snow White's missing daughter, and her quest to break the spell. With its intricate plot and rich characters, this series offers a fresh take on classic fairy-tales.
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Enchanted

In "Enchanted," the enchanting princess Giselle is thrust from her magical, musical animated world into the gritty reality of modern-day Manhattan. As she navigates this strange new environment, she meets a charming but imperfect divorce lawyer and begins to question her storybook view of love. This whimsical tale is a delightful blend of animation and live-action that raises questions about true romance in the real world.
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Penelope

"Penelope" tells the story of a forlorn heiress cursed with the face of a pig, who can only break the curse by finding true love. Sequestered inside her family's sprawling estate, Penelope eventually breaks free and embarks on a journey to find herself and her own version of happiness. This narrative beautifully merges themes of self-acceptance and love in a unique fairy-tale setting.
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EverAfter

"EverAfter" reinterprets the classic Cinderella story through the character of Danielle, a vibrant young woman forced into servitude by her cruel stepmother. Her fortunes change when she unexpectedly meets Prince Henry, disguised as a royal guest. This spirited retelling emphasizes themes of empowerment and resilience, presenting a Cinderella who takes control of her own destiny.
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The Company of Wolves

Angela Carter's fairy tales come to life in this haunting adaptation, "The Company of Wolves." Young Rosaleen dreams of dark woods where her grandmother tells cautionary tales of innocent maidens and their dangerous encounters with wolves. As Rosaleen matures, she must face the wolves herself. This gothic, atmospheric film delves deeply into themes of innocence, sensuality, and transformation.
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Into the Woods

"Into the Woods" combines several fairy-tale characters in a musical and magical forest setting. A baker and his wife must venture into the woods to break a curse placed on them by a vengeful witch. This film weaves together the tales of Cinderella, Little Red Riding Hood, Jack and the Beanstalk, and Rapunzel, exploring the consequences of wishes and quests.
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The Princess Bride

An unquestionable cult classic, "The Princess Bride" tells the comedic and romantic tale of Princess Buttercup and her beloved Westley as they face obstacles like six-fingered swordsmen, evil princes, and even death. This whimsical narrative layers humor with genuine emotion, making it a beloved retelling of a magical love story destined to conquer all.
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Ella Enchanted

In a land where every child receives a 'gift,' Ella is given the burden of obedience, which forces her to follow every command. Determined to break this curse, Ella sets off on a journey filled with ogres, giants, and scheming relatives. "Ella Enchanted" is a modern twist on traditional fairy-tales, highlighting the importance of free will and self-discovery.
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Tell Me a Story

"Tell Me a Story" reimagines the world's most beloved fairy tales as dark, twisted psychological thrillers. Set in modern-day New York City, this series intertwines The Three Little Pigs, Little Red Riding Hood, and Hansel and Gretel into an unexpected narrative filled with suspense and intrigue. It is a gripping and mature re-envisioning of the classic stories we thought we knew.
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Mirror Mirror

In "Mirror Mirror," Snow White's classic tale is transformed when an evil queen, who has squandered her fortune, plots to marry a wealthy prince. However, the prince has fallen for Snow White, setting the stage for an epic clash with seven rebellious dwarves joining Snow White's side. This vibrant, visually stunning film reinvigorates a beloved story with humor and charm.
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Maleficent

With "Maleficent," the tale of Sleeping Beauty is told from a different perspective, that of its supposed villain. Maleficent, a pure-hearted guardian of a forest kingdom, turns vengeful after a ruthless betrayal. She places a curse on the king's newborn daughter, Aurora, only to later discover that Aurora holds the key to peace and Maleficent's own redemption.
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Maleficent: Mistress of Evil

"Maleficent: Mistress of Evil" continues the saga, delving deeper into the complex relationships between Maleficent and her goddaughter Aurora. As impending nuptials and emerging dark forces pull them in different directions, they must confront new allies and adversaries. This installment further explores themes of love, loyalty, and the power of family.
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In a world where classic fairy-tales still hold a cherished place in our hearts, these modern retellings breathe new life into the stories we grew up with. By adopting contemporary settings and complex characters, they invite us to rethink familiar narratives. Whether you prefer the traditional happily ever after or enjoy seeing these tales twisted into darker, edgier versions, there's something for everyone in this magical collection. So, pick a film, sit back, and let the enchantment begin!