Cinderella (1914)

After playing with our expectations, this turns out to be a very different sort of film.

Through painfully honest and emotional moments, the movie becomes irresistibly relatable

It’s fine. It's literally the definition of a fine movie. You’ve seen it before, you know every beat and outcome before the characters even do. Only question is how much escapism you’re looking for.

One of the best movies of the year! Incredible from the beginning to the end.

Probably the earliest Pickford vehicle available, Cinderella (1914) (a 7/10 bonus on Milestone's "Through the Back Door" DVD) proves to be almost a total disappointment. Directed by actor James Kirkwood in an extremely static, non-filmic style with the camera chained to the floor (it doesn't move even once during the movie's entire 52 minutes), and primitive special effects, the picture is redeemed only by a briefly imaginative sequence with an animated clock. For some unaccountable reason, Mary seems totally over-awed. Her costumes are unattractive and her performance is lifeless, totally lacking her usual get-up-and go. Mind you, real-life husband, Owen Moore as the prince, is even less charming.Although a lot of money has been spent on sets and extras, Kirkwood's plodding direction is a real killer.

Who better to play Cinderella than the most beloved star of the time, Mary Pickford. This adaptation of the popular fairy tale was long considered lost, until the film was discovered in the Nederlands Film Museum. Famous Players production of the story is straightforward as they had hoped it would appeal as much to adults as to children, and planned it's release for Christmas 1914. Beautifully filmed on impressive locations in Greenwich, Connecticut, permission was obtained to shot at some wealthy homes, very effectively creating the Royal Palace and it's grounds. They incorporated some trick photography that is considered standard for the time when compared to the highly advanced work of French filmmaker George Melies. The strong lighting and tinting of this film gives it a dreamy watercolor effect. But as always, it is the charms of Mary Pickford that makes this film extremely delightful. With her unique naturalness, she adds such lovely little touches, such as tickling the footman to see if he is real after being transformed from a rat. With her expressions and gestures, Pickford is able to give Cinderella a personality, that is most engaging. She is even enchanting as she carries cages full of mice and rats for her fairy grandmother to change into horses and footmen, and Pickford looks exquisite in her gown as she travels to the Prince's ball. Owen Moore, Pickford's husband at the time plays the role of Prince Charming fairly well, and the stepmother and sister's are adequately performed by Isabel Vernon, Georgia Wilson, and Lucille Carney. I consider this 1914 version of Cinderella, a little masterpiece among early silent films. I was surprised how intrigued my two preteen nieces were while watching this film, and feel that is a strong testament, to the fact that this Cinderella is still able to bring delight and entertainment nearly one hundred years later. For anyone who appreciates early silent films and the art of Mary Pickford, this early film is a must see.

The famous fairy tale, appropriately starring Mary Pickford (as Cinderella), with Owen Moore (as Prince Charming). Ms. Pickford's performance is terrific; in many of her early films, her acting ability is most clearly evident. Mr. Moore was one of Pickford's three successful actor husbands; he is charming as her Prince. This film seems adds a lot of story which is not in later re-makes; and, most of it would have been well worth repeating. However, this version skimps on background and characterization; perhaps, the filmmakers supposed everyone knew the basic story. If you don't know "Cinderella", it is possible to figure out who's who, and what's going on. Though, you won't believe how skillfully Pickford catches rodents. Great parts: Pickford and Moore romancing before the clock strikes midnight (or, is that noon?), and Pickford's "clock dream". The accompanying soundtrack, by Donald Sosin and Joanna Seaton, is exemplary. ****** Cinderella (12/28/14) James Kirkwood ~ Mary Pickford, Owen Moore, Inez Marcel, Isabel Vernon

Cinderella (1914) *** (out of 4) Sweet and charming version of the famous story has Mary Pickford in the title role. The film clocks in at just over fifty-minutes and there isn't a single minute that's wasted in telling the story. The film doesn't try anything too special but instead relies on Pickford and her incredible charm, which jumps off the screen. I believe Pickford was one of the most natural actresses in the history of cinema and her innocent charm is on full display here. The film has a very sweet tone and doesn't forget the fact that it's a fairy tale. Another interesting aspect is Cinderella's nightmare of the clock when she doesn't arrive home until after midnight. Some nice comic touches as well and two incredibly ugly stepsisters.