Release Date: September 6, 2011
Rating: PG
Running Time: 88 minutes

It’s a modern and enchanting twist on an enduring classic! Katie (Lucy Hale) dreams of being a recording artist but is continually thwarted by her cruel stepmother (Missi Pyle) and stepsister (Megan Park). When Katie falls hard for Luke (Freddie Stroma), the new boy at her Performing Arts school, she tries to get his attention with her singing. But when her stepsister takes credit for Katie’s amazing voice and Luke falls for the wrong girl, Katie must learn to stand up for her dreams before her stepmother forces Katie to sing Luke into the arms of her wicked stepsister at the Winger Talent Showcase.

ABC Family stars, Lucy Hale and Megan Park star in the latest Cinderella adaptation, A Cinderella Story: Once Upon A Song. What makes this adaptation different from all of the rest is the musical aspect of the story that so many adaptations leave out. Of course the music in this film is not nearly as timeless and wonderful as what we know from the classic fairy tale, but it is a good modern take that tweens today will enjoy without question. As a follower of Park and Hale’s careers, I know of their music backgrounds but this film is Hale’s film singing debut, giving her space to shine on the film’s soundtrack.

Also, the Bollywood dance brings a visually stunning touch to the film and is quite a work out for the cast. Ah, the cast. The cast is an incredible group of young actors whom you can tell had a blast working on this film so it makes watching this film bearable for anyone who is wary of watching another Cinderella remake. There’s nothing original about the story but it resonates with this generation so much that it’s okay. Especially since in the end, the message is so positive, to go after your dreams no matter who tries to get in your way. There’s actually a lot to take out of the film, so if nothing else, get this DVD for a young person that you know so they will have one more film encouraging them to do the right thing.

Bonus Features:
Spotlighting Lucy Hale: Our New Cinderella (6:34 minutes) – Viewers watch footage of Lucy Hale in rehearsals on and off set as Hale and her co-stars are interviewed about the talent that is Lucy Hale. Hale’s acting and singing talents are praised but most importantly, her fearlessness and drive to succeed is what stands out about Hale and it is what makes her give this role so much depth. That is worth watching the cast talk about, so make sure to check out this feature.

Appearing in this Feature:
Executive Producer/Choreographer, Michelle Johnston
Actors, Lucy Hale, Megan Park, Freddie Stroma, Jessalyn Wanlim, Missi Pyle, and Titus Makin Jr.
Writers, Jessica Scott and Erik Patterson
Songwriters & Soundtrack Producers, Tim James and Antonina Armato

Meet Prince Charming (7:42 minutes) – Lucy Hale interviews her co-star, Freddie Stroma off set on a dock in Wilmington, North Carolina. The casual setting enhances the incredible chemistry that these two young actors have and makes for the most entertaining interview for this film period.

Make ‘Em Move (6:22 minutes) – This feature showcases the musical sequences in the film, though because of its length it is hard to grasp any depth in one particular sequence. This is more of an overlook than in depth look or lesson into any of the moves. I was particularly bummed that more of the Bollywood culture was not detailed.

Appearing in this Feature:
Executive Producer/Choreographer, Michelle Johnston
Actors, Lucy Hale, Megan Park, Jessalyn Wanlim, Titus Makin Jr., and Missi Pyle

Flippin’ On Set (6:24 minutes) – The cast members’ Flip Cam diaries from on and off the set have been edited together for viewers who want a firsthand look at what life is like for an actress on set of a film. This feature gives viewers a great look at the chemistry amongst the cast and positive energy on set and will make viewers want to view the film again just to get a taste of that energy again.

* “Bless Myself” Official Music Video

Own A Cinderella Story: Once Upon A Song on DVD September 6, 2011.