Happily Ever After (1989)

Film Overview
"Happily Ever After", a 1989 American animated film, is an unofficial follow up to the 1937 Disney film "Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs". The movie is produced by Filmation and directed by John Howley, with the screenplay by Martha Moran. The movie sees the return of Snow White, voiced by Irene Cara, and the introduction of brand-new characters, including the bad guy, Lord Maliss, the sibling of the evil queen.

Main Plot
In the movie, Snow White is preparing to lead a happy life with her prince (voiced by Michael Horton) when catastrophe strikes as Lord Maliss (voiced by Malcolm McDowell) kidnaps the prince. Promising to avenge his sister, the evil queen, Maliss changes himself into a dragon to intimidate the kingdom. To save her cherished, Snow White teams up with the Dwarfelles, the female cousins of the 7 dwarfs from the predecessor movie.

Character Introduction: Dwarfelles
The Dwarfelles, voiced by noted stars such as Carol Channing, Zsa Gabor, and Tracey Ullman, are equipped with special powers gifted by Mother Nature (Phyllis Diller). Bloom, Muddy, Sunburn, Moonbeam, Marina, Critterina, and Thunderella, are initially unruly, but they grow close to Snow White and end up being critical in her quest to rescue her prince.

Character Introduction: The Prince and Lord Maliss
The Prince, voiced by Michael Horton, plays the damsel in distress in most of the movie - a turnaround of standard fairy tale roles. He's under the spell of Maliss, turned into a shadow version of himself, and spends the majority of the film trying to conquer this type. Lord Maliss, a frightening character with his red radiant eyes and rough voice, acts as an imposing antagonist.

The Adventure
The movie takes the audience on a perilous journey through the 'Realm of Doom', full of unsafe creatures and dark magic. The characters likewise travel to the home of the seven overshadows, only to find it deserted and quickly to be a battlefield with Maliss. Amongst the unforgettable scenes are the Dwarfelles' squabbles, particularly Thunderella's struggle to control her power, culminating in conserving her friends in a climactic scene.

The Climax
As the journey magnifies, Snow White and her buddies face Lord Maliss in his dragon form. In the climax of the film, Thunderella - the most questioned and mocked Dwarfelle - steps up, harnesses her power, and controls Maliss, breaking his spell on the prince. Through teamwork, bravery, and friendship, they eliminate Maliss, setting the movement for a 'happily ever after'.

Conclusion and Reception
"Happily Ever After" adds a feminist touch to the classic story of Snow White by portraying her as a strong character rather than a damsel in distress. The movie features lively animation and a remarkable soundtrack, making it appealing for both kids and grownups. Nevertheless, while the film boasts positive themes about female empowerment, it has been criticized over the years for its uninspired dialogue and variance from the original fairy tale elements. Furthermore, it got blended reviews from critics, who valued the concept and animation however discovered the execution less satisfying. Despite the criticisms, "Happily Ever After" has a particular charm that makes it a sentimental look for those who grew up in the late '80s and early '90s.

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