Cinderella Ending Explained: What Happened and Why?
Complete breakdown of the climax, final twists, and spoilers for Cinderella.
Cinderella Ending Explained: A fairy godmother magically turns Cinderella's rags to a beautiful dress, and a pumpkin into a coach. Directed by Georges Méliès, this 1899 drama film stars Georges Méliès (le gnome de la pendule / le suisse à l'entrée de l'église), alongside Bleuette Bernon as Marraine la bonne fée, Carmelli as Le Prince Charmant, Jehanne d'Alcy as La Reine Mère. With a 6.2/10 rating, the ending has divided audiences.
What Happens at the End of Cinderella?
A fairy godmother magically turns Cinderella's rags to a beautiful dress, and a pumpkin into a coach. Cinderella goes to the ball, where she meets the Prince - but will she remember to leave before the magic runs out? Méliès based the art direction on engravings by Gustave Doré. First known example of a fairy-tale adapted to film, and the first film to use dissolves to go from one scene to another.
Georges Méliès's narrative builds toward a resolution centered on Georges Méliès (le gnome de la pendule / le suisse à l'entrée de l'église)'s journey. Cinderella goes to the ball, where she meets the Prince - but will she remember to leave before the magic runs out.
How Does Georges Méliès (le gnome de la pendule / le suisse à l'entrée de l'église)'s Story End?
- Georges Méliès: Georges Méliès's storyline wraps up in the final act, though some viewers have found the resolution more ambiguous than expected.
- Bleuette Bernon (Marraine la bonne fée): Bleuette Bernon's role in the climax proves pivotal to how the central conflict resolves.
- Carmelli (Le Prince Charmant): Carmelli's character undergoes a significant shift in the final act.
What Does the Ending of Cinderella Mean?
Cinderella's ending attempts to resolve the major plot threads, though some narrative elements involving Georges Méliès may feel rushed. Georges Méliès's final act has been both praised for its ambition and criticized for its execution.