The premise isn't very new. Save for the pig snout, the movie is founded on your basic fairy tale elements of unconditional love and a prince charming.

Once the movie begins however, you will realize that the execution of the movie creates the magic, and excuses the simple plot. Humor peppers many scenes, the direction is entertaining through and through - doesn't ram life lessons down your throat, or make you gag at the cheesiness of the lines and situations. Instead, everything is quaint, almost surreal.


The acting was a primary moving force in the movie as well. Christina Ricci's charm contributed greatly to the ambiance. James McAvoy made for a great unconventional modern prince charming and his own journey of freedom was poignant. A lot of characters were explored, instead of focusing mainly on Penelope, and everyone really contributed to how colorful and animated this movie was.

All in all, I do believe that this show is an underrated viewing pleasure. I would watch this over and over. It is the type of movie that leaves you smiling hours after the end credits. It is a movie that reminds us of striving for our personal freedom, and of accepting ourselves for who we are first and foremost.