MOVIE REVIEW: Snow White and the Huntsman

Director: ... Robert Sanders
Writers: ... Evan Daugherty, and Hossein Amini (screenplay)

Cast:
Kristen Stewart ... Snow White
Chris Hemsworth ... The Huntsman
Charlize Theron ... Ravenna
Sam Claflin ... William
Sam Spruell ... Finn
Ian McShane ... Beith
Bob Hoskins ... Muir
Ray Winstone ... Gort
Nick Frost ... Nion
Eddie Marsan ... Duir
Toby Jones ... Coll
Johnny Harris ... Quert
Brian Gleeson ... Gus
Vincent Regan ... Duke Hammond
Noah Huntley ... King Magnus

This is the second version of Snow White to be released this year. Both films have a PG-13 rating: however, Snow White and the Huntsman is a much darker, more sinister film which pushes the attendance level closer to the thirteen-year-old age bracket. Of the two films, this is the one I prefer; however it is not entirely perfect, either. Rumor has it there may be a sequel.

The basic Snow White story is there. A daughter is born to the royal couple shortly before the mother dies. The King is caught up in battle with a foreign army. In this case, King Magnus believes he's rescued a prisoner when he pulls the beautiful Ravenna from a coach. She so captures his heart that they are wed the next day.

On her wedding night, Queen Ravenna stabs her new husband in the heart, then lets in the conquering army. There's no comedic element in Charlize Theron's portrayal of the Evil Queen as there was in Mirror Mirror. Her motivation and anger are clear for all to see. Every woman who's been ill-used by men can almost sympathize with her.

Kristen Stewart's Snow White showcases that the girl has a lot more to offer than simply a thrall to vampires. She grows into her role and literally gives every girl a chance to cheer.

The imagery is particularly captivating. Sets are so finely depicted they could come from some of my favorite fantasy artists. Castle scenes are rich and opulent. The forest is brooding and deadly at every step. James Newton Howard (of Toto fame) was in charge of the music and every note added to the pageantry or pain it was intended to depict.

I definitely preferred Snow White and the Huntsman to Mirror Mirror. Suspect before the theatrical run is over, my husband and I will be seeing the film for a second time just to drink in the scenery. I thought I'd want to purchase Mirror Mirror, but this is the DVD I know I'll want to see again. I may well even want the soundtrack because I've been a James Newton Howard fan for years.

RECOMMENDATION: If you have younger children, take them to Mirror Mirror. For the most part, there's very little in that film to scare them and quite a bit of comedic relief. If you want a darker, richer version see this film--but leave all but the most mature under thirteen at home.

Rebecca McFarland Kyle, June 2012