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A new ‘Cinderella’ story is on the way decades after the Disney classic
By AriJit Saha
June 23, 2026
Bette Midler as the Fairy Godmother
Seventy years have gone by since the debut of the Disney animated film ‘Cinderella,‘ which mesmerized generations around the world and established a gold standard for cinematic fairytale. However, an unusual wind of change is now blowing through the classic land of fairies, as the upcoming animated movie Steps is about to add an entirely different dimension to the folklore that gave birth to modern animation.
Although the basic principles and origins of the traditional fairy tale are still deeply embedded in people’s minds, this modern remake is likely to be a radical departure from earlier versions. The movie boasts a talented cast that includes Ali Wong, Stephanie Hsu, Amanda Seyfried, and a living legend, Bette Midler. In addition, by combining the starry energy of today with a classic plot, the movie is sure to deliver plenty of bright surprises to both longtime fans of the fairytale and newcomers.
The New ‘Cinderella’ Movie Puts The Stepsisters At The Center Of The Story
Seven decades after Disney’s classic animated film ‘Cinderella,’ a new version of the fairy tale is about to emerge with a completely different focus. Rather than telling the story of her transformation from a mistreated maid to a princess, the film ‘Steps‘ focuses on Cinderella’s stepsisters.
The story will focus on the two sisters, Lilith and Margot. Traditionally, Cinderella’s stepsisters make her life miserable and serve as some of the story’s primary antagonists. In this film, however, the stepsisters will become the central characters.
The story begins with Lilith stealing a magical wand, transforming her sister into a frog. Afterward, the sisters embark on an adventure that culminates in their meeting Cinderella.
As the sisters try to undo the damage, the film explores their relationship and places them in situations that challenge the roles audiences have long associated with them.
Thus, by focusing on the minor characters rather than the tale’s heroine, the film offers an opportunity to see the well-known fairytale from another perspective.
The Film ‘Steps’ Gives New Depth To The Antagonists
The most striking aspect of the ‘Steps‘ is its effort to rethink the stepsisters. While the traditional fairy tale casts these two female characters as flat antagonists who exist purely to mistreat Cinderella, the film portrays them as far more complex figures than any previous adaptation implied.
Rather than simply presenting the stepsisters as villains, the film explores their life experiences and personal growth. Thus, in ‘Steps,’ the stepsisters become the central characters, not simply evil characters from Cinderella’s past.
The film’s themes include self-discovery, redemption, and misunderstanding. Overall, the film can be seen as a part of the current trend of revisiting well-known tales and giving greater depth and complexity to characters who were once relegated to supporting roles.
With a star-studded voice cast, the project aims to blend humor, fantasy, and emotional storytelling. In fact, it might become one of the most unique ‘Cinderella‘ adaptations in decades.
