From The Ugly Duckling to The Princess Diaries, transformations have played a vital role in films. The magic of Hollywood has shown audiences how even a scullery maid can become a princess (Cinderella), a flower girl can be mistaken for a duchess (My Fair Lady), and a prostitute can become a yuppie (Pretty Woman). In combination, these three films show how Hollywood, over the years, has depicted how makeovers have transformed the lives of ordinary women, allowing them to access their inner beauty and become legends!
Cinderella
The quintessential makeover movie, Disney's Cinderella has been delighting viewers (children and grown-ups alike) for the past sixty years. The story of poor Cinderella, who must serve her wicked stepsisters, cleaning and cooking and generally being overlooked, was a classic well before the film, which cemented the story in the world's mind forever. Not everyone has a fairy godmother, of course - but the classic scene where Cinderella's rags are turned into a ball gown, her hair magically swept into a perfect up-do, and - of course - the appearance of the glass slippers - is still a lovely scene, if a little implausible for the average viewer. No series of makeover films would be complete without this classic!
- Directed by Clyde Geronimi and Wilfred Jackson
- Starring Ilene Woods as the voice of Cinderella
- 1950
- Running time: 74 minutes
My Fair Lady
Hollywood rumors had it that Julie Andrews was originally slated to play Eliza Doolittle in this renowned musical adaptation of Pygmalion. Delightful as Andrews is, it's hard to imagine My Fair Lady without Audrey Hepburn as the "guttersnipe" who becomes a lady. Rex Harrison plays Henry Higgens, the man who is convinced that he can pass Eliza off as a duchess at the Embassy Ball, pushing her - and himself - to the limits of sanity. A classic love story as well as a movie about Eliza's transformation, My Fair Lady chronicles Eliza's makeover - her new dresses, hairstyle, and especially new way of speaking - as an important element in the romance that develops between her and Higgens. Hepburn's portrayal of the "two" Elizas is charming - and the songs make the film that much more enjoyable. Not to be missed!
- Directed by George Cukor
- Starring Audrey Hepburn and Rex Harrison
- 1964
- Running time: 170 minutes
Pretty Woman
Certainly more risqué than the previous two movies, Pretty Woman is the story of Edward (Richard Gere), a slightly cold businessman, and Vivian (Julia Roberts) as the stereotypical prostitute with a heart of gold. When he picks her up one night, neither of them imagine that they'll have a long-term affair - however, as they get to know each other, as Roberts transforms from streetwalker to stunning beauty (her return to the first designer store is a great moment), they fall in love. Not as shocking as the synopsis may sound, the film is actually quite charming, though definitely not suitable for children! Still, Roberts' makeover - her blond wig is replaced by her naturally wild red hair, her falling-apart boots with classy pumps - is one of the classics and secured her career as the It Girl of the early '90s!
- Directed by Garry Marshall
- Starring Julia Roberts and RIchard Gere
- 1990
- 119 minutes
Rachel Dale - Rachel Dale has studied film since 2003 but been fascinated by movies throughout her life. The first film she saw was Singin' in the Rain ...
