The mid to late 90s were a strange time for fantasy films. The tried and true Disney Princess formula was beginning to fall by the wayside, and more ‘realistic’ and ‘modern’ takes were all the rage. This is where 20th Century Fox’s version of “Cinderella” comes into play.
“It changed the way I saw the world,” Barrymore said about the film. “I don’t think I would be the same person without giving a spin on what we think a princess is supposed to be.”
Starring Drew Barrymore as the titular cinder girl, “Ever After” trades the classic fairy godmother for Leonardo da Vinci. Which, honestly, makes a lot of sense. Instead of magic, ingenuity and guile are the name of the game. Also starring Anjelica Huston, Dougray Scott, Melanie Lynskey, Patrick Godfrey, Toby Jones, and Richard O’Brien, this is certainly a more grounded version of the classic tale. We see Danielle (Cinderella) as a more tomboyish character, obviously still dealing with a pain in the ass stepmother (Houston) and stepsister (Megan Dodds), but also including one not so bad stepsister (Lynseky).
But perhaps one of the most special parts of the film are the incredible period costumes by the great Oscar winning designer, Jenny Beaven (“Mad Max: Fury Road,” “Cruella“). Talk about iconic. Especially the showstopper gown complete with da Vinci stylized wings from the ball scene. Imagine getting to own that particular ensemble! Well…theres a chance you can, as it’s going up for auction next month.
Kerry Taylor Auctions is hosting Lights Camera Auction in March, and the very first lot is the silver-gold gown. Not only is it the dress, but also the wings, and the specially-designed corset that provides structure for the dress and wings. There were only two sets of wings made by Naomi Critcher; one specifically to be the tattered version you can see in the provided images.
Barrymore and her stepsister co-stars actually had a reunion last year, even donning costumes.
’It was a tough film to make – as it was filmed in the Dordogne with little access to fabric shops! We made as much as we could in London but still had to set up a studio in France with skilled seamstresses on site. I was given a free reign in terms of design,” Beaven said. “The wings were made in London by Naomi Critcher, and had to be flown over by plane with their own seat next to me. There were only two pairs made. This pair was intentionally distressed to reflect the character’s dismay as she sits forlorn in a doorway being pelted with rain, nursing her broken heart.’’
You can see the listing for this incredible gown in the auction catalog here. We should ALSO mention one of Dougray Scott’s Prince Henry costumes, complete with cape and boots is also available! It does not, however, include the tabard piece with the royal house crest on it.
“Ever After: A Cinderella Story” is currently streaming on Disney+.
