Disney's INTO THE WOODS is one of those movies where I just had a suspicion that it was going to be good – really good. It has an amazing cast featuring Meryl Streep, Emily Blunt, James Corden, Anna Kendrick, Chris Pine and Johnny Depp. With talent like that all packed into one film you have to think that if those actors believe it will be good (and worthwhile for them to be a part of it), then it WILL be good. And guess what, I was RIGHT!
I had a chance to screen the film in an awesome location – the Samuel Goldwyn Theater, the official “Academy” theater, where the Oscar nominations are announced each year. I am sure you have seen pictures of it before with the huge Oscar statues on each side of the stage and it's deep red curtains. It was an exciting place to watch – and Chris Pine was even sitting a few rows behind us!
INTO THE WOODS is an absolutely gorgeous and thrilling adventure that puts an up-to-date twist on several of our most beloved childhood fairtyales including Cinderella, Little Red Riding Hood, Jack and the Beanstalk and Rapunzel. These favorites are woven together with a new story about a childless Baker (James Corden) and his Wife (Emily Blunt). Their greatest wish is to have a child and to do so they must complete a series of tasks laid out by the Witch (Meryl Streep).
The tasks presented to the Baker and his Wife are gathering objects such as a Cape as Red as Blood, Cow as White as Milk, etc – all objects that require them to interact with the classic fairy tale characters. The story itself is a captivating one, but even more so is the way in which it is presented.
First of all, this cast can SING! While each sounds fantastic on their own, my favorite numbers are those in which many of the characters sing together – it is a rich blend of voices that is quite awe-inspiring. The fact that these musical numbers where so many sing together to create a beautiful sound helps further one of the main plot points that we are not alone and must all come together as a community to achieve our goals.
The film is also visually stunning. Even though much of the story is set in the dark woods, there is still a gorgeous layering of color with fantastical scenes. And then there are the costumes by Colleen Atwood – they are amazing! From the ugly stepsisters to Cinderella to the Witch, all of the costumes are top-notch and I definitely foresee some more awards for Ms. Atwood to add to her collection!
After the screening, we also had a chance to listen to a special Q&A with the cast and filmmakers of INTO THE WOODS. The panel included Director Rob Marshall, writer James Lapine, costume designer Colleen Atwood, cast members Meryl Streep, Emily Blunt, James Corden, Chris Pine, Anna Kendrick, Christine Baranski, and Tracey Ullman, and others. While listening to them talk you could just see and hear the great chemistry they have – no wonder the film worked so well!
Like INTO THE WOODS on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DisneyIntoTheWoods
Follow INTO THE WOODS on Twitter: https://twitter.com/intothewoods
INTO THE WOODS is rated PG and opens in theaters everywhere on December 25th!
Megan Filzen says
I really like the picture quality!
Felicia says
I really can’t wait to see this one! I loved the broadway version.
Virginia @thatbaldchick says
This is sure to be a hit. I can’t wait to see it and hear the soundtrack!
Robin Rue (@massholemommy) says
I am really looking forward to seeing this movie. Disney really DOES know how to do it right 🙂
Jessica (Savory Experiments) says
I love Meryl Streep and can’t wait to see her in this role. Now I just need to find time for my family to go!
Melissa says
What an incredible experience! I am hoping to go see this with my husband next week!
Amy Z. says
We’re looking forward to seeing this so much! I think the cast is great and I’m excited about the songs.
Catherine S says
This looks like a great movie. I love to watch any movie that Johnny Depp is in.
Shop with Me Mama (Kim) says
I seriously cannot WAIT until this movie comes out so I can see it. I love all the cast and everything! Just looks like a great movie, not to be missed!
Liz Mays says
I’m looking forward to checking out this film. Meryl Streep is going to be an awesome villain.
Debra says
I loved the musical. We’re planning on seeing this on Christmas night as a family.
Tracy @ Ascending Butterfly says
I probably won’t catch this one until it hits cable. But from the trailers I have seen so far, looks like Meryl Streep is the one to watch!
Christie says
I would have loved being at the Q&A! I just thought this movie was so fun!
Pam says
I haven’t seen this movie yet,but I really want to. It looks great!
Debbie Denny says
They are a great cast. Exciting for you. I am on this movie so big.
Jeanine says
I am actually really looking forward to this! How awesome and fun!!! I cant wait to see.
Theresa says
I am glad to hear it is good. Sometimes when a film has too many big names, it can be a flop. I can’t wait to go see this one!
Rosey says
I suspected it would be good too. Glad to hear my thoughts on that one were correct. 🙂
Beth@FrugalFroggie says
It looks like a great movie. I have seen the commercials. Although I won’t see it on Christmas Day, I look forward to seeing the movie soon.
Kathleen Bunn says
This movie looks amazing. We were hoping to go and see it today, but we are flooded in on our road, so it will have to wait.
April Decheine says
I am so excited to see this movie, it looks so good, I love all the actors in it too, good review!
Chrystal @ YUM eating says
I am so excited for this movie. I can’t wait to see it. I’ll wait until after the big holiday rush though. I’m not the biggest fan of overly crowded theaters.
Angie | Big Bear's Wife says
I can’t wait to see this movie! We’re going to see it tomorrow when it comes out!!
Shannon Gosney says
Sounds like you had an amazing interview with the cast of Into the Woods! I can’t wait to take the kids to see this movie in the theater.