There are films designed to thrill, to terrify, or to provoke thought. Then there are those crafted to be a warm embrace, a cinematic refuge from the world’s sharper edges. For many, the 2007 film Enchanted has become precisely that: a near-perfect piece of feel-good cinema that has lost none of its sparkle.
At its heart is a performance of remarkable sincerity. The actor playing the central role, a fairytale princess thrust into the gritty reality of modern-day New York, delivers a masterclass in wide-eyed commitment. She embodies the archetype of the classic animated heroine—complete with an affinity for animals and a tendency to burst into song—without a trace of irony, making her journey of cultural dislocation both hilarious and genuinely touching. It’s a role that anchors the entire film, proving that earnestness, when executed with this level of skill, can be profoundly compelling.
The film’s genius lies in its tone. It functions as both a loving homage and a gentle parody of the Disney classics it references, finding humor in the absurdity of fairytale logic colliding with contemporary life. A musical number in Central Park, where the princess attempts to explain the concepts of romance to a cynical divorce lawyer, is a standout moment of unadulterated joy. The film pokes fun at the tropes—the instant love, the cleaning-with-creatures musical sequence—but always with affection, never with meanness. This distinguishes it from more cynical parodies; its heart is always in the right place.
The supporting cast is uniformly excellent, each actor understanding the assignment perfectly. The vain, oblivious prince provides consistent comedy gold, while the pragmatic lawyer and his young daughter offer the necessary grounding. Even the villainess chews the scenery with delightful gusto. Every character, no matter how small, is granted a satisfying arc, contributing to the film’s overarching theme that a little optimism can be contagious.
In an era where studios often revisit animated classics through straightforward live-action remakes, Enchanted stands apart. It isn’t a replication but a reinvention, using the familiar language of fairytales to tell a new story about keeping one’s spirit alive in a disillusioned world. It argues for the value of kindness, open-heartedness, and yes, the occasional spontaneous song.
Ultimately, the film’s lasting power as a comfort watch comes from this seamless blend of clever writing, memorable music, and, most importantly, authentic warmth. It doesn’t just reference magic; it manages to create a little of its own, offering a timeless reminder of the power of a good, old-fashioned, happily-ever-after.