Cruella gets a punk rock glam infusion
Cruella review by Kathia Woods
How can one possibly think of making another Cruella film after that grandiose performance by Glenn Close? Go in a completely different direction with Emma Stone in the title role and a new original live action film. Gone are the Dalmatians and in is the fashion, a rival, and some fun sidekicks, that is the approach Disney took to this modern and sleek film.
Cruella 2021 is a lighthearted and anti-establishment film. It has a punk rock glam rock vibe to it. The picture is gloomy and opulent at the same time. We first see Cruella de Vil, alias Estella, as she is wreaking havoc on her classmates. You can tell she's a bit of a tomboy. Cruella reveals herself as a nonconformist early on. This helps to develop her image and gives the story a unique spin on Disney's family-friendly offering.
After a terrible accident, our little ingenui finds herself orphaned. She is quickly adopted by two petty thieves, Horace Badun (Paul Walker Hauser) and Jasper (Joel Fry), and her career as a thief begins. Madam Baroness, her idol, is a fashion designer, and she dreams about becoming one herself at night. As luck would have it, she lands a job at her idol's company and quickly rises through the ranks to become a designer. What's the adage about being cautious what you wish for? The job she aspired to has a lot of pressure on it. Baroness is a harsh, demanding, and chilly woman.
Cruella de Vil is played well by Emma Stone. Even if her British accent slipped from her control at times, she accomplished what was required to lead this entertaining film. As the Baroness, (Emma Thompson) was deliciously nasty while clad in gorgeous finery. In this somber film, Fry and Hauser provided humorous relief. Maya (Kirby Howell-Baptiste) could have been used more effectively, in my opinion. What was her function in this film other to cheer Cruella on?
On the other hand, the wardrobe and music choices in Cruella were a plus. The clothing and make-up scream fashion and help to describe Cruella's (Emma Stone) and the Baroness' power structure (Emma Thompson). We must remember that glam rock, punk, and disco were all popular in London in the 1970s. Artie (John McCrea) has more glam rock on display than anyone else His clothes were reminiscent of David Bowie's Ziggy phase. Emma Thompson's hair was perfectly coiffed. She was the epitome of glitz and elegance. Her headdresses were just stunning. As she evolved into the diva Cruella, Stone signified punk. Jenny Beavan and Tom Davies chose all these diverse styles with care.
Cruella's music was also a big component of the show. You can hear Supertramp, the soul of the Whispers, and Ike and Tina's rendition of Whole Lotta Love from the 1970s. This contributes to the film's atmosphere.
Hair and cosmetics are also influenced by fashion and music. Red lips and rock makeup on the face contribute to the fashion discourse. Kat Ali and Sariata Allison, who led the cosmetics team, did not disappoint.
The film's direction is a touch sloppy at times, but it's a refreshingly enjoyable trip altogether. It's a sensory overload, visually spectacular, and a refreshing change from the normal summer fare. Be aware that this Cruella is not for the house's younger members. Although it has some mature topics, your tweens will thoroughly appreciate it.
Cruella arrives in theaters and Disney+ Premium May 28th.