Armed with a fantastic cast, funny and poignant writing, and beautiful art direction, this adaptation of Rapunzel is arguably the best episode of Shelly Duvall's classic series.
The appeal of this adaptation comes from the balance of elements: comedy, drama, and romance are all allowed to coexist without one trumping the other. The episode also never mocks the more outlandish aspects of the original story (how many times have we seen modern fairy tale adaptations such as Frozen (2013) mock the love at first sight trope with little originality or intelligence?). It plays everything straight with a great deal of affection.
Surprisingly, this episode keeps the sexual elements of the original tale intact with the prince visiting Rapunzel every night and her giving birth to twins in the desert after the witch learns about their evening trysts.
All in all, a beautiful and emotionally resonant adaptation. Must-see for fairy tale lovers and ideal for kids too.
The appeal of this adaptation comes from the balance of elements: comedy, drama, and romance are all allowed to coexist without one trumping the other. The episode also never mocks the more outlandish aspects of the original story (how many times have we seen modern fairy tale adaptations such as Frozen (2013) mock the love at first sight trope with little originality or intelligence?). It plays everything straight with a great deal of affection.
Surprisingly, this episode keeps the sexual elements of the original tale intact with the prince visiting Rapunzel every night and her giving birth to twins in the desert after the witch learns about their evening trysts.
All in all, a beautiful and emotionally resonant adaptation. Must-see for fairy tale lovers and ideal for kids too.