The fairy tale is well told, naturally with embellishments to expand the story into a full length film, but with no changes to the story which would disturb any but the most conservative traditionalists. The choice of historical clothing and modern language is clearly laid down right at the beginning, and is adhered to throughout the film. The best-known actor is Gottfried John, who plays the king, the most nuanced character in this film, well, as one would expect. The central character was played by Julie Engelbrecht, daughter of actress Constanze Engelbrecht, who displayed the varying emotions convincingly enough for this fairy tale, but, because the drama was limited, this being a traditional tale told in a traditional way, was not called upon to display the extent of her acting talent. Having said that, she was also a good choice of actress, and added to the enjoyment of the story. Although historical costume with modern terminology and phrasing is by no means the only possible way of retelling fairy stories, it harmonises, possibly because one is used to such clothing in such films, but one does not have to change one's way of thinking in order to follow the dialogues. It was also very good that, whilst using many phrases that are very modern, the film was not tempted in any way to use any terminology that one might find offensive. The appearances of the title character, played by Robert Stadlober in a fitting, nuanced fashion, used modern film techniques in a way that underlined the unfolding of the plot, and at no time pressed the story into the background. The appearances of animals in the woods, and the views of the castle were the photographic highlights, but throughout the film, the colouring and scenery remained fitting for the story. All in all, this was a very enjoyable remake of the well-known Grimms' fairy tale.
Review of Rumpelstilzchen
Rumpelstilzchen
(2009 TV Movie)
Fairy tale told with historical costume and modern language
3 October 2010