All the familiar elements are there, although given a decidedly 21st century twist - so the seven dwarves are social outcasts turned bandits, it is Snow White who rescues the Prince from an enchantment with true love's kiss and so on. In fact this Snow is far more of an action heroine than the traditional Disney princess (although probably less so than Kristen Stewart's warrior maiden to be seen later this year in Snow White and the Huntsmen). That said, the "message" of Snow White discovering her true self/believing in herself feels very Disney.
And if all of that seems a bit too worthy, fear not. Director Tarsem has a track record of films that are very inventive, with lots of ideas and energy, but also a bit messy (see The Fall). Here he also throws into the mix bits that feel like they come from other legends, like the mysterious beast in the forest and an interesting interpretation of the mirror, but on this occasion it really works for him and the film is a lot of fun to watch.
The dwarves, both individually and as a group, are great value and wonderful to watch. Lily "daughter of Phil" Collins does a decent job in the lead and Julia Roberts clearly enjoys getting to play the bad guy and does so with relish. However, the real revelation here is The Social Network's Armie Hammer who brings the physique of the romantic lead with the comic timing to make himself a bit ridiculous when required.
Overall - 7/10 A suitably modern twist which is genuinely fun and inventive.
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