Cinderella III: A Twist in Time
A time-reversing spell threatens Cinderella's happily ever after.
Cinderella III: A Twist in Time is a 2007 American animated direct-to-video musical fantasy film produced by Disneytoon Studios and distributed by Buena Vista Home Entertainment. It is the third installment in Disney's Cinderella trilogy, serving as a sequel to both Cinderella (1950) and Cinderella II: Dreams Come True (2002). The film follows Cinderella after the events of the first two films as she contends with a time-reversing spell cast by Lady Tremaine to prevent her marriage to the Prince.
- Release date
- February 6, 2007
- Director
- Frank Nissen
- Screenwriters
- Dan Berendsen, Margaret Heidenry, Colleen Ventimilia, Eddie Guerlain
- Production company
- Disneytoon Studios
- Distributor
- Buena Vista Home Entertainment
- Home video gross
- nearly $93 million
- Running time
- Not specified in source
Lore & Background
The film was completed over two years, from 2004 to 2006. Inspired by Anastasia's romantic subplot introduced in Dreams Come True, A Twist in Time expands upon her reformation into a more sympathetic character. The writers updated Cinderella and the Prince's personalities to be more appealing to modern audiences. Although none of Cinderella's original animators were involved, the filmmakers referenced the 1950 film and Disney's Animation Research Library for research and inspiration. The film was one of Disney's last direct-to-video sequels before the studio pivoted toward original content, and it was the final project produced by DisneyToon Studios Australia, with Disney dissolving various departments while the film was still in production.
Reader's Guide
Cinderella III: A Twist in Time received generally positive reviews from critics, who deemed it a vast improvement over its immediate predecessor and praised the character developments of Cinderella, the Prince, and Anastasia. Unlike most of Disney's direct-to-video sequels at the time, it was well-received. The film grossed nearly $93 million in home video sales. Its production marked a shift in Disney's direct-to-video strategy, as it was among the last such sequels before the studio focused on original content. The film also represents the final work of DisneyToon Studios Australia, as Disney dissolved various departments during its production.
Did You Know?
- The voice cast includes Jennifer Hale as Cinderella and Susanne Blakeslee as Lady Tremaine.
- The film's plot involves Lady Tremaine using a magic wand to travel back in time to prevent Cinderella from marrying the Prince.
- Despite being the third film, it is a direct sequel to Cinderella II: Dreams Come True, not a prequel.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Cinderella III: A Twist in Time?
It is a 2007 American animated direct-to-video musical that serves as the third installment in Disney's Cinderella trilogy. The film was produced by Disneytoon Studios and released by Buena Vista Home Entertainment on February 6, 2007.
What is the central conflict in Cinderella III: A Twist in Time?
Lady Tremaine attempts to undo Cinderella's marriage to the Prince by casting a spell that reverses the flow of time. The story centers on Cinderella fighting to protect her happily ever after from this temporal threat.
Who directed and wrote Cinderella III: A Twist in Time?
Frank Nissen directed the film, while the screenplay was crafted by a writing team that included Dan Berendsen, Margaret Heidenry, Colleen Ventimilia, and Eddie Guerlain.
How does Cinderella III: A Twist in Time end?
Cinderella and the Prince ultimately break free from the time-reversing curse, restoring the proper timeline and securing their marriage. Their happily ever after is preserved once the spell's effects are fully undone.
Why is Cinderella III: A Twist in Time notable among Disney direct-to-video releases?
It pulled in nearly $93 million in home video revenue, making it one of the stronger commercial performers in Disney's direct-to-video catalog. It also wraps up the Cinderella trilogy by delivering a final confrontation with Lady Tremaine.
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