Your favorite fairy tale, Cinderella, is getting twisted into a stylish and darkly entertaining nightmare! IFC Films and Shudder proudly present The Ugly Stepsister, a fresh and unsettling take on the classic story of Cinderella. It is brought to life by writer and director Emilie Blichfeldt in her feature film debut. However, this isn’t your average pumpkin carriage and glass slipper scenario. Prepare for a biting satire wrapped in a cinematically exhilarating package.
Costumes Designed By A Legend
Adding to the anticipation, IFC Films and Shudder have unveiled new exclusive images from The Ugly Stepsister. They offer a tantalizing glimpse into the film’s remarkable craftsmanship and striking visual style. A particular highlight showcased in these images is the exquisite costume design by the legendary Manon Rasmussen.
Rasmussen’s name is synonymous with cinematic elegance and authenticity. She has shaped the visual landscapes of films such as Another Round, A Royal Affair, Melancholia, and more. So, her involvement in The Ugly Stepsister elevates the film’s aesthetic, promising a visually stunning world deeply rooted in a tangible reality.
A Dedicated Director
Director Emilie Blichfeldt embarked on extensive research early in the film’s development, meticulously defining the silhouettes, historical periods, and intricate details that would align with her unique vision. Her dedication led her to consult with the renowned fashion icon Lady Amanda Harlech, ensuring a keen eye for style and historical accuracy.
Rasmussen wholeheartedly embraced Blichfeldt’s input from the very beginning, recognizing the director’s clear artistic direction. Drawing upon her unparalleled expertise, Rasmussen brought a grounded authenticity to every single piece of clothing seen in the film.
Blichfeldt remarked on this collaborative process, stating, “Manon has an unmatched talent for crafting costumes that feel like an extension of the character, incorporating worn, stitched textures to make the actors feel at home in their roles. Together, we play on Disney’s iconic silhouettes for Cinderella and the stepsisters, tying these designs to the mid/late 1800s when cosmetic surgery began emerging in medical practice.” This intriguing detail hints at a darker, more mature exploration of beauty standards within the fairy tale framework.
A New Twisted Take on a Classic
The Ugly Stepsister plunges into a sinister twist on the beloved Cinderella narrative. It follows Elvira, played by Lea Myren. Elvira is laser-focused on one goal: earning the prince’s affection, no matter the cost. In this kingdom, beauty isn’t just admired; it’s a brutal business, a fierce competition where appearances can determine your fate. Elvira will find herself locked in a fierce rivalry with the beautiful and enchanting Agnes, portrayed by the captivating Thea Sofie Loch Næss, as both women vie to become the belle of the ball and capture the prince’s eye.
The Ugly Stepsister promises to be more than just a horror film. It’s a timely and relevant examination of the pressures surrounding body image and the often unrealistic standards of beauty imposed by society. Blichfeldt’s unique voice and cinematic flair make her one of the most exciting new international filmmaking talents. Prepare to have your perception of “happily ever after” irrevocably altered when The Ugly Stepsister opens in theaters on April 18th. Get your tickets now.
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- Lea Myren and Isac Calmroth- Photo Marcel Zyskind
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- Photo Lukasz Bak
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- Lea Myren and Ane Dahl Torp – Photo Lukasz Bak
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- Lea Myren – Photo Lukasz Bak
