Snow White and the Huntsman (2012)

Director: Rupert Sanders

Starring: Kristen Stewart, Chris Hemsworth, Charlize Theron

In a twist to the fairy tale, the Huntsman ordered to take Snow White into the woods to be killed winds up becoming her protector and mentor in a quest to vanquish the Evil Queen.

The well-known story of Snow White is told very differently in ‘Snow White and the Huntsman’. When her father, King Magnus, is killed by Ravenna (Charlize Theron) – a prisoner he saved and married – Snow White is locked in a tower. Ravenna then becomes ruler of the Kingdom, but she has a secret. In order to maintain beauty and youth, she has to drain the youth from young women. I thought Charlize did a good job as the film’s villain.

When Snow White manages to escape, Ravenna hires a huntsman (Chris Hemsworth) to pursue and capture her. ‘Snow White and the Huntsman’ is a magical, mystical film with stunning visuals and beautiful costumes. It is action-packed and has interesting characters.

But I also had issues with the film. Firstly, I didn’t believe Kristen Stewart to be the right actress to portray Snow White (no offense to Kristen; I think she’s a good actress, but just not as Snow White). The other issue I had, was the fact the Huntsman didn’t contribute as much to the film as I had hoped he would. He was there whenever he was needed, but Snow White pretty much managed without him. She’s a strong character who stood her own grounds.

One expected a romantic development between Snow White and the Huntsman, but I enjoyed the fact there was no overbearing love story. This is a fantasy adventure for young and old.

‘Snow White and the Huntsman’ earned nearly $400 million on a $170 million budget. It received 46 award nominations (including Oscar nominations for Best Costume Design, and Best Visual Effects), winning 13. It was followed by a sequel ‘ The Huntsman: Winter’s War’.

Would I watch it again? I’m not sure…