INTO THE WOODS (7 out of 10) – Directed by Rob Marshall, written by James Lapine, adapted from the musical by Stephen Sondheim; starring Meryl Streep, Anna Kendrick, Emily Blunt, James Corden, Chris Pine and Johnny Depp; rated PG (thematic elements, fantasy action and peril, and some suggestive material); running time: 124 minutes.
Disney’s film adaptation of Stephen Sondheim’s musical “Into the Woods” is now available to own, complete with star-studded cast and catchy songs.
“Into the Woods” follows a variety of well-known fairy tale characters as they pursue their wishes. The Baker and his Wife (James Corden and Emily Blunt) hope for a child, and in their quest they cross paths with the other characters: Cinderella (Anna Kendrick), Jack (Daniel Huttlestone), Little Red Riding Hood (Lilla Crawford), and Rapunzel (MacKenzie Mauzy).
Meryl Streep, an unparalleled queen of cinema, performs wonderfully as The Witch. She said that when she turned 40, she received three offers to play witches within a year. She finally accepted “when this role came along because this witch is quite different. First of all, she transforms. Her whole reason for being is to reverse a curse that has been placed on her; she sets in motion all sorts of devices and causes a dramatic upheaval in everybody’s lives.”
Having not seen the stage version, I can’t weigh in on any changes or updates to the story or songs, but I don’t think vocal talents were overlooked simply to have major stars in the film. (Such as Russell Crowe as Javert in “Les Miserables.” He gave it his best, and you can tell, but “Stars” deserved better). However, Johnny Depp (The Big Bad Wolf) admits that he swore never to sing again after “Sweeney Todd.” And Emily Blunt said that she was almost too nervous to audition, feeling embarrassed at singing in front of people.
The film is beautiful, as well. The woods transform from scene to scene, almost becoming a character in their own right. And Cinderella’s transformation is breathtaking, with the swirling leaves surrounding her as a tiara appears on her head and a magnificent golden dress replaces her drab garments.
Speaking of garments, Collen Atwood’s costumes embrace the variety of the characters and their different stories. Johnny Depp’s wolf, with hat and sprats, would look out of place if he stood next to the princes and their royal attire, but that’s the point: they’re all from different tales. Streep describes Atwood as “a tornado. Her work is so imaginative, free and dramatic. At the same time, she is well known for her attention to detail and some of the work is so carefully thought out, delicate and beautifully made – it is really beautiful and fun to wear.”
A few observations: The Witch’s “Stay With Me” song to Rapunzel reminded me of “Mother Knows Best” from “Tangled,” when Mother Gothel tries to convince Rapunzel that the world beyond the tower is dangerous, and she’s better off inside. Just struck me as very similar thematically.
Also, hearing “No One is Alone” distracted me from the movie because the very beginning reminded me too much of another song. I finally realized it was “The Candy Man” from “Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory.” Whew. Mystery solved.
The home release contains all sorts of bonus features, including:
- Never-Before-Seen Sondheim Original Song: “She’ll Be Back”
Meryl Streep performs a compelling new song that sheds a little more light on theWitch’s relationship with Rapunzel. This never-before- seen composition was penned especially for this movie by Stephen Sondheim and James Lapine, and is seen here exclusively on Blu-ray and EHV. With introduction by Director Rob Marshall.
- There’s Something About The Woods
Journey into this mysterious forest to discover how this compelling, new musical was made. Meet Director Rob Marshall and his award-winning team of artists and craftspeople, see how the woods were brought to life…and what they represent tothe story…and to all of us.
- The Cast As Good As Gold
Emily Blunt. Anna Kendrick. Chris Pine. James Corden. Johnny Depp. Meryl Streep. Meet the remarkable cast of this musical movie, and hear of their affinity for this Broadway classic.
- Deeper Into The Woods includes four segments about the development of the film: From Stage To Screen, Magic of the Woods, Designing the Woods, and The Costumes of the Woods.
- Film commentary with Director Rob Marshall and Producer John DeLuca.
- Music & Lyrics: Get direct access to the musical song segments from the film, with optional sing-along lyrics.
- 5 Golden Eggs (Easter Eggs)
“Into the Woods” is now available on DVD, Blu-Ray, and digital HD.