Cruella is the live-action origin story about one of Disney’s most notoriously menacing and fashionable villains. Emma Stone takes up the mantel and goes toe to toe with Emma Thompson in this crime dramedy! Let’s consider the pros and cons of Cruella…
Pros: Firstly, the costume design in this movie is appropriately avant-garde. I personally don’t know anything about fashion, but the swanky montages of the competing designers clawing their way to the top is where this movie shines. Secondly, accent aside, Emma Stone carries this movie with her unhinged performance. She has a promising career playing maniacal villains, and in all likelihood, reprising this role.
Cons: Disney labels this movie as a crime/drama, whereas IMDb has it listed as crime/comedy. It doesn’t matter regardless, because it delivers neither a dramatic story nor a funny one. There are jokes, don’t get me wrong, but the overly silly tone cheapens any attempt at an emotional impact. Lastly, the animal CGI is slightly underwhelming and pulled me out of the movie a few times. It’s not terrible, but the unnaturalness of the digital dogs are only highlighted when juxtaposed with real pups.
I give Cruella a B. It has empowering moments and pops visually, but is so silly and over-the-top that it cheapens any seriousness it was aiming for. However, if you’re in the mood for something light and cheesy, this movie is a good option. Happy Watching!
“I’m Cruella. Born brilliant, born bad, and a little bit mad.”