Film: ‘Tangled’; Voiceovers: Mandy Moore, Zachary Levi, Donna Murphy; Director: Nathan Greno, Byron Howard; Rating: ****
I loved it. Best movie in years. Based on the fable of Rapunzel by Brothers Grimm, ‘Tangled’ is funny, fun, and cool.
After discovering a magic sunlight flower that restores her youth every time she sings to it, Mother Gothel kept it for herself. However, one day the king’s men searching for the same plant for their dying, pregnant queen, take the flower away. The queen gives birth to a daughter whose hair has the same magical qualities that are lost if cut. So, mother Gothel kidnaps the girl and keeps her locked in a tower with only her long hair to lead her up, till one day a thief, losing his way, discovers Rapunzel.
One of the most delightful things about the film is a story that even though you know, you realise you did not know. That is because the story has been twisted to match modern sensibilities. Consider this: in every version of the popular fable, Rapunzel is a commoner while her lover is a prince. The film tangles the story to reverse it with the girl being a princess and the boy, a thief.
Two delightful side characters and their antiques remind one of the imaginations that made Disney popular in the first place. The first is a horse that is not only more of a dog with great sniffing capabilities and ability to wag his tail, but can also fight with a sword better than a man. Next is a chameleon, whose idiosyncrasies, colour changing abilities and long tongue provide much laughter.
Did I mention it was a cool movie? I’m tired so I’m done for now.
