Particle.news

Download on the App Store

Feminist Body-Horror Film 'The Ugly Stepsister' Debuts in Theaters

The reimagined Cinderella story, praised for its critique of beauty standards, features graphic surgery scenes and intense performances.

Overview

  • Directed by Emilie Blichfeldt, the film offers a dark, body-horror retelling of Cinderella from the stepsister's perspective.
  • Lea Myren, who stars as Elvira, researched pain responses to authentically portray the character's extreme physical suffering.
  • The film's graphic scenes, including a shocking self-mutilation sequence, have provoked intense reactions, with reports of a viewer vomiting during its Sundance premiere.
  • Blichfeldt uses the film to critique societal beauty norms and the objectification of women, blending visceral horror with feminist commentary.
  • Acquired by Shudder after its Sundance debut, the movie is now screening widely in U.S. and U.K. theaters, receiving critical acclaim for its originality and thematic depth.