In The Ugly Stepsister, director Emilie Blichfeldt delivers a visceral reimagining of the classic Cinderella story, turning the spotlight on Elvira, the overlooked stepsister. Premiering at Sundance in January 2025, the film has garnered attention for its unflinching portrayal of societal beauty standards and the lengths one might go to attain them.
Set in 18th-century Europe, Elvira (Lea Myren) is constantly overshadowed by her conventionally beautiful stepsister, Agnes (Thea Sofie Loch Næss). Driven by a desire to win the affection of Prince Julian (Isac Calmroth), Elvira undergoes a series of harrowing cosmetic procedures, including the stitching of thick eyelashes into her eyelids and the ingestion of a tapeworm to lose weight. These scenes, described by The Times as "gruesome and unsettling", have led to reports of audience members feeling physically ill during screenings .
The film subverts traditional fairy tale roles, portraying Agnes not as the innocent Cinderella figure but as an enforcer of oppressive beauty norms. Critics have praised Blichfeldt's debut for its bold storytelling and thematic depth, with The Guardian highlighting its exploration of body image and societal expectations.
The Ugly Stepsister was released in U.S. theaters on April 18, 2025, and is scheduled for release in the UK and Ireland on April 25, 2025. For those interested in streaming, the film is expected to be available on Shudder later this year .
This daring adaptation challenges viewers to reconsider the narratives they've grown up with, offering a chilling commentary on the dark side of beauty and desire.
