Amanda Seyfried Lends Voice to Cinderella in Netflix's Animated Feature 'Steps'

by : Roger Ebert
Prepare for a reimagined fairytale as Amanda Seyfried steps into the enchanted glass slippers of Cinderella in Netflix's highly anticipated animated film, 'Steps.' This upcoming feature promises a fresh and unconventional twist on the classic narrative, exploring themes of redemption and challenging traditional character roles.

A Fairytale Retold: When Villains Get a Second Chance

Amanda Seyfried Joins the Magical Ensemble of 'Steps'

Award-winning actress Amanda Seyfried is set to captend audiences with her vocal talents in the forthcoming Netflix animated movie, 'Steps.' She will embody the beloved character of Cinderella, bringing a contemporary flair to the timeless princess.

A Fresh Perspective on a Classic Story: The Narrative of 'Steps'

Under the creative direction of Alyce Tzue and John Ripa, 'Steps' introduces a compelling new angle to the Cinderella saga. The film delves into the lives of the stepsisters, Lilith (voiced by Ali Wong) and Margot (voiced by Stephanie Hsu), challenging preconceived notions of their villainous roles. The plot unfolds when Lilith is mistakenly implicated in an incident involving a stolen magic wand at the Royal Ball. This mishap leads to Margot's transformation into a frog and the kingdom falling under the sway of a self-absorbed, prince-obsessed young woman. To rectify the situation and restore balance, Lilith must unite with Cinderella and an unexpected, yet charming, troll. Together, they embark on a journey to salvage the kingdom, mend the fractured fairytale, and demonstrate that even those labeled as 'villains' are deserving of their own happy endings.

The Directors' Vision: Crafting a Relatable Cinderella

Alyce Tzue, co-director of 'Steps,' shared insights into the casting of Amanda Seyfried, highlighting her unique ability to infuse characters with specificity and relatability. Tzue emphasized the desire to craft a modern Cinderella, complete with human flaws and coping mechanisms, a challenge Seyfried embraced wholeheartedly. Her portrayal is described as a blend of humor and pathos, resulting in a refreshingly human interpretation of the iconic figure.

Seyfried's Impact: Elevating the Character with Depth and Humor

John Ripa, the other half of the directorial duo, praised Seyfried's dedication and passion during the production. He noted that her extensive experience and profound understanding of character have significantly enriched Cinderella's role, imbuing her with an unexpected depth and comedic timing that surpassed their initial imaginings.

The Creative Minds Behind the Enchantment

The production team for 'Steps' includes notable figures such as Amy Poehler, Jane Hartwell, and Kim Lessing. Poehler and Lessing are collaborating through their production company, Paper Kite Productions, promising a captivating and enchanting cinematic experience.

Anticipation Builds for the Release of 'Steps'

Audiences can look forward to the magical premiere of 'Steps' later this year, as Netflix prepares to unveil this innovative and heartwarming animated adventure.