Director Catherine Hardwicke (“Twilight,” “Thirteen,” “The Nativity Story”) puts a whole new twist on this children’s classic. The film “Red Riding Hood” turns a playful children’s story into an intense teen drama that focuses on forbidden love.
Valerie (Amanda Seyfried) loves Peter (Shiloh Fernandez) her childhood friend, but is engaged to Henry (Max Irons), much to her family’s approval but her dismay. But when the werewolf that has plagued her small village for decades attacks a villager for the first time in 20 years, her world begins to fall apart, muddling her ability to distinguish between who is good or evil. Is her long-time lover the culprit? Is the man she barely knows a murderer? Or is it perhaps her sweet and caring grandmother (Julie Christie) who lives in the beautiful forest?
As time to save her village runs out, Valerie is forced to confront the beast and stare fear right in the face.
Storyline is sound for average movie-goer
If you dislike dramatic romance movies where the main character is torn between two distinct lives, then this is not the film for you. If you are not a picky moviegoer, however, or simply enjoy dark romances such as “The Twilight Saga,” then you will be entertained.
The overall storyline was good, and there were no holes in the script or story that I thought were blatantly overlooked. The characters were developed, but maybe not in the way some viewers would like. Instead of developing a character’s background at the beginning, the film focused on developing each through dialogue, slowly unveiling important facts pertaining to each character.
I rather enjoyed the way the film unraveled its story –– not knowing too much about the characters at the beginning allowed me to stay intrigued until the closing credits. It kept me on the edge of my seat, as each character’s desires and purposes were slowly brought to light.
The movie also did a decent job at staying with the original story, such as weaving in actual excerpts from the tale, while also taking the liberty to add a darker and more adult-themed spin.
Sparse action, dramatic thriller sequences
Action sequences in the movie were few, but rough and gory at the times when they did appear. The film’s thriller moments kept me jumpy until the end, as there was a surprise around every dark corner. Every time I thought I had guessed the end correctly, I was thrown for a loop and was completely lost again. So, if you get scared easily or have a weak stomach for violence, then this film isn’t for you either.
However, if you’re a thriller junkie like me, and also love intense dramatic romances, then you’ll enjoy “Red Riding Hood.” It has a solid love story –– the main characters base their relationship on loyalty and friendship rather than outward appearances. Though some may find Valerie and Peter’s relationship corny, I found it refreshing that they were best friends growing up. In that way, it wasn’t an unrealistic romance that begins after the couple only knows one another for a few hours.
The film also did well with avoiding over-the-top feminist tones that some movies incorporate. It did a good job of portraying Valerie as a good person who truly cares for others, but does not allow herself or her loved ones to be pushed around. It was refreshing to see a truly likable heroine.
Cinematography and acting don’t disappoint
As for the acting, it was actually very believable. Seyfried plays a trapped, medieval girl whose life had been chosen for her — and I know I enjoy a film when I feel the same emotions that the characters do. Christie, who plays Valerie’s grandmother, does a tremendous job at scaring the audience with her hippie-like nature, while still soothing fears with a warm, pleasant presence. Her acting ability is remarkable, and I’m interested to see more of her work.
The cinematography was the best thing about the film. With sweeping shots of great forests and snow white mountains, “Red Riding Hood” makes a lasting impression. Valerie’s red cloak adds an amazing contrast to the snowy, wood surroundings; the red stood out so beautifully that it honestly took my breath away. It was the quintessential Hardwicke film — she loves making colors pop out and is skilled with fine-tuning landscaping sequences. In this regard, “Red Riding Hood” reminded me of “Twilight” because of the dark shadowy contrasts and the forest scenery — not to mention themes like forbidden love.
On another artistic note, the soundtrack was amazing. As in “Twilight,” Hardwicke mixes present-day rock music with a timeless romantic story. In one of the most intense scenes of the movie between Valerie and Peter, Fever Ray’s song “The Wolf” plays in the background. This creates a scene that is downright captivating and relentlessly passionate.
For some, but not all
Overall, I enjoyed this film and found little to complain about. However, I know that not everyone enjoys the kinds of movies I do. The easiest way to determine if you’d enjoy this film is to think about your experiences with “The Twilight Saga,” as “Red Riding Hood” has similar themes and character-types. If you’re still unsure, then wait for the dollar theater. In the end, I merely lay out the facts — you decide.
