Notable director and actor Kenneth Branagh directed a new vision for the classic tale of “Cinderella” that premiered on March 13. It boasted an impressive 132.5 million dollar worldwide debut, including an estimated 70.1 million dollars in the United States, and a record-breaking 25 million dollars in China.

Since the release, the movie has received phenomenal reviews for its refreshingly traditional take during a current time period of movie production that focuses on strong, arguably abrasive, creative adaptation.

The plot begins with Ella (Lily James), who at first enjoys a truly enchanted life. She spends her days living among her animal friends on a beautiful estate with her affectionate parents. However, circumstances quickly turn for the worst when her mother falls mortally ill. Ella’s mother provides one last piece of advice that Ella will carry with her through her endeavors, to have courage and be kind. However, her father struggles to cope with the loss of his love. Longing for companionship, he marries a gorgeous, yet cruel, woman with vain daughters. However, when Ella’s father dies unexpectedly on a trip, she is left on her own with Lady Tremaine (Cate Blanchett), her stepmother.

One thing that many movie-goers feared was that the essence of “Cinderella” would be lost in translation from the original 1950 animated movie to the 2015 live-action version. However, instead of branching off from the classic story, the new version expands upon it. The added depth helps viewers understand how Ella came to be in the position she endures and what enables her to overcome the challenging obstacles she faces.

“It was so beautiful I cried,” senior Aly Moyer said. “It did not deviate very much from the original and when it did, it did in a good way.”

Lately, typical damsel-in-distress movies have been receiving criticism for undermining female independence. In Branagh’s version, Prince Charming (Richard Madden) is a more dynamic character than a knight-in-shining-armor. Instead, the Prince and Ella bring out the best in each other. Rather than just being rescued, Ella is more capable of standing on her own than Disney’s original heroine.

Another praise to the new version is the virtuous resonance that it embodies. After hammering home the idea of kindness, Ella proves her good-hearted nature. Instead of simply moving on to live happily ever after with her prince, Ella first forgives her wicked stepmother for her transgressions.

Young or old, fans alike are sure to love the latest adaptation of this classic tale with dazzling costumes and wondrous special effects.