Disney’s Cruella (2021) takes audiences on a thrilling ride through the fashion world and the dark origins of one of Disney’s most iconic villains. Directed by Craig Gillespie, this live-action prequel dives into the backstory of Estella, later known as Cruella de Vil, providing a fresh and exciting take on the character. With a stunning visual style, a killer soundtrack, and memorable performances, Cruella is a captivating blend of revenge, style, and transformation.Uprevious depictions of the notorious villain, Cruella offers a deeper, more nuanced story of her origins. Set in 1970s London, the film follows Estella (Emma Stone), a talented but rebellious young woman with a passion for fashion. Estella’s obsession with style and her desire to make a name for herself in the fashion world eventually lead her down a darker path, where she embraces the persona of Cruella.The central conflict in Cruella revolves around Estella’s rivalry with the powerful and elegant fashion mogul, the Baroness (Emma Thompson). The Baroness is a renowned designer with a cutthroat attitude and a talent for turning her vision into reality. However, her dark secrets and cruel nature make her the perfect nemesis for Estella, who soon finds herself embracing a darker side to defeat her.In the process, Estella begins to morph into Cruella, a persona defined by her bold and rebellious sense of style, and her ruthless pursuit of success. The film explores how Estella’s transformation into Cruella isn’t just about adopting a new name—it’s about taking control of her destiny, embracing her true self, and avenging those who have wronged her.Estella’s journey begins as an aspiring designer with dreams of fame, but tragedy and betrayal push her into a world of revenge and ambition. As she becomes more cunning and creative, Cruella emerges as a force to be reckoned with—her sharp wit and unconventional approach to fashion making her both a villain and a visionary.
One of the standout features of Cruella is its focus on fashion. The film is visually striking, with elaborate and extravagant costumes that reflect Cruella’s creative genius and flamboyant personality. The fashion isn’t just a backdrop—it’s integral to the story, symbolizing Estella’s growing confidence and her transformation into Cruella. The bold colors, intricate designs, and dramatic flair all speak to her unique sense of style and individuality.The costumes in Cruella have been widely praised for their creativity, with legendary costume designer Jenny Beavan bringing the world of high fashion to life. Every outfit is a statement, a visual representation of Estella’s internal evolution, and they contribute to the film’s overall artistic aesthetic.Emma Stone delivers a standout performance as Estella/Cruella, adding depth, charm, and wit to the character. She brings both vulnerability and fierceness to Estella’s journey, making her transformation into Cruella both captivating and believable. Stone’s portrayal of the character explores the complexities of a woman who’s both a victim of circumstance and an agent of chaos.Alongside Emma Stone, Emma Thompson shines as the Baroness, delivering a performance filled with elegance, cruelty, and sharp humor. The chemistry between the two actresses elevates the rivalry at the film’s core, with Thompson’s Baroness being the perfect foil to Stone’s fierce and unpredictable Cruella.
At its core, Cruella is a story about identity, revenge, and the blurred lines between good and evil. Estella’s journey is one of self-discovery, as she grapples with who she is and what she’s willing to sacrifice to achieve her goals. The film explores how cruelty and kindness are intertwined, and how a villain’s origins are often shaped by betrayal, loss, and the harsh realities of the world around them.Cruella’s iconic obsession with Dalmatians is hinted at in the film, adding another layer of depth to her character and setting the stage for her eventual role as the villain we know from 101 Dalmatians. However, Cruella doesn’t just paint her as a one-dimensional character—it shows her as a woman shaped by circumstance, ambition, and heartbreak.Disney’s Cruella is a visually stunning and emotionally compelling film that reimagines the origins of one of Disney’s most iconic villains. With a brilliant performance from Emma Stone, unforgettable costumes, and a gripping storyline, Cruella offers a fresh perspective on a character that has fascinated audiences for generations.The film’s mix of dark humor, revenge-driven plotlines, and stylish fashion makes it a must-see for anyone who loves a good origin story with a twist. Whether you’re a longtime fan of the 101 Dalmatians franchise or new to the world of Cruella de Vil, this movie offers a fun and thrilling experience that is sure to leave an impression.
