Common Sense Note

Parents need to know that this non-musical take on Cinderella is true to the classic Disney animated tale, if somewhat more intense given that it's live action instead of a cartoon. As a child, Cinderella (Downton Abbey's Lily James) loses her mother; her father dies when she's older. Both are drawn-out scenes filled with tears and intense sadness, which could upset younger kids. The prince's father also dies, and Cinderella is a beautiful, kind, and dutiful young woman (albeit one with an unreailstically tiny, corset-cinched waist) who's left to suffer at the hands of her evil stepmother (the divine Cate Blanchett). Everything about the film is visually stunning -- from the sets to the costumes to the actors -- and being a courageous, kind person is a constant theme. But the prince is transfixed by Cinderella after meeting her just once, and she has no future until he comes and rescues her. The stepmother's cruelty and neglect toward Cinderella could scare some kids. There's a little mild language ("stupid," "shut up") and some background drinking at a party.

Sexual Content

Violence

Prominent scenes of parental death. Cinderella is orphaned by her saint-like parents, the stepmother is widowed twice, and the king dies in his son's arms. There's no real scariness except for the stepmother being cold and cruel to Cinderella. There's a chase scene after Cinderella runs away at midnight; later she's locked in the attic. There's a brief plot to get rid of Cinderella. Young kids might be alarmed by the pumpkin turning into and out of a coach.

Language

Lady Tremaine calls her daughters "stupid" and tells them to shut up.

Social Behavior

Kindness, bravery, love, acceptance, and respect are consistent themes. But although Cinderella's intelligence and kindness are clearly valued, she does still end up getting rescued by a prince ... who's transfixed after meeting her once. And Cinderella's exceedingly tiny waist could raise body image issues.

Consumerism

No product placement within the movie, but Cinderella has been a Disney brand for years, and this movie will help sell lots more tie-in products, from toys to DVDs.

Drugs / Tobacco / Alcohol

Drinking at a party.