Netflix's Steps Reimagines Cinderella Through a Gothic Lens
A family-friendly animated film exploring sisterhood, assimilation, and the misunderstood stepsister.
1Subverting Classic Fairy Tales
Netflix's new animated film, Steps, offers a fresh perspective on the traditional Cinderella narrative. By focusing on the perspective of the so-called evil stepsister, Lilith, the story moves away from standard princess tropes. It utilizes a familiar fairy tale framework while introducing modern themes of identity, sisterhood, and social assimilation.
2Gothic Protagonist and Aesthetic
Voiced by Ali Wong, Lilith is portrayed as an accidental witch with a distinct gothic fashion sense. Unlike the traditional, compliant Cinderella, Lilith embraces black clothing, leather boots, and DIY haircuts. This aesthetic choice serves as a visual rebellion against the rigid, uniform beauty standards imposed by the kingdom's resident mean girl, Priscilla.
3The Dynamics of Privilege
The film introduces a critical parable regarding privilege through the presence of a fairy godmother. While Cinderella benefits from magical intervention and a wealthy father, Lilith and her sister Margot face systemic exclusion. This dynamic highlights the disparity between those who fit societal norms and those who are marginalized for their differences.
4Conflict and Character Growth
Lilith's jealousy toward Cinderella's seemingly perfect life sparks a rebellion that threatens the kingdom's stability. However, the narrative forces the two characters to collaborate when a rampaging Priscilla endangers everyone. Through this conflict, both women learn to move past their initial biases, discovering the value of self-acceptance and genuine mutual support.
5Diverse Creative Team
The screenplay for Steps was crafted by a large ensemble of writers including Ava Tramer, Dana Schwartz, and Riki Lindhome. This collaborative effort ensures the film balances fairy-tale tropes with complex social commentary. The writing team successfully navigates difficult topics like alienation and peer pressure while maintaining a lighthearted, family-friendly tone throughout.
6Unexpected Comedic Elements
Beyond the central drama, the film incorporates eccentric characters like a maniacal manservant played by Peter Dinklage. It also features a rowdy biker gang of trolls who ride goats like motorcycles. These whimsical additions provide a unique, weird charm that distinguishes the movie from standard Disney or DreamWorks animated feature films.
7Cultural Commentary on Assimilation
The story explores the pressure to conform, particularly for the immigrant-coded seamstress family. Lilith is wordlessly urged to abandon her Eastern-influenced style to avoid alienation. The film suggests that the kingdom's hostility is driven more by a fear of Priscilla’s cruelty than by any genuine dislike of Lilith’s unique cultural background.
8Streaming Release Expectations
Steps is scheduled to debut on Netflix on November 20. Given its blend of humor, heart, and visual flair, it is positioned to become a highly revisited title for subscribers. By celebrating both Cinderella and Lilith with compassion, the film offers a modern, inclusive take on a centuries-old story for new generations.
Original article: Mashable — Netflix's Steps Reimagines Cinderella Through a Gothic Lens