Snow White and the Huntsman

Release Date: Jun 01, 2012 

Runtime: 2 hr. 7 min.

Director: Rupert Sanders 

Cast: Kristen Stewart, Charlize Theron, Chris Hemsworth, Sam Claflin, Ian McShane.

We all know that fairy tales are make-believe — awakening our imagination as far as the mind can take us. But when a tale is this bland and farfetched that believing is close to impossible, it's easy to imagine something greater. In a dark retelling of the Brothers Grimm classic, Rupert Sanders presents a visual showpiece. Emblazoned with ravens, and oozing with liquid gold, the film is as infernally enchanting as that of Guillermo del Toro. But the similarities end there, as the story and cast do little to quash the weaknesses. Kristen Stewart as the titled heroine is as belittling as you'd expect her. Stoic and emotionless, her "Twilight" days are indistinguishable from the 'fierce' warrior she seemingly portrays in the film. The same can be said for the Huntsman, played by reigning demigod, Chris Hemsworth. Unlike "Thor," his personality here is as rigid as the ax he wields in battle, and it's hard to believe that his affection for Snow White is anything but that of self-pity. In contrast, Charlize Theron gives a worthy performance as the wicked queen, Ravenna. Whilst her bloodcurdling screams are recurrently over-the-top, her sinister demeanor sets the tone of the film, and it's this exaggerated performance that can be construed as its saving grace — or postponement of its imminent failure. Granted, this isn't an ideal adaptation, "Snow White and the Huntsman" still fairs better than "Mirror Mirror," as if that comes of any surprise.

Rating: 2 stars