"Mirror, Mirror" is a 2012 film that adapts the story of Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs. In this reimagining of the classic fairytale, based on a script by Melissa Wallack and directed by Tarsem Singh, Snow White (Lily Collins) is a princess who is exiled from her own kingdom by her wicked stepmother, the Queen (Julia Roberts). Snow White joins forces with a group of seven rebels, who promise to help her reclaim her rightful throne, but her journey is complicated by the fact that she has fallen in love with the dashing Prince Alcott (Armie Hammer), who is also desired by the Queen.
One of the key differences between "Mirror, Mirror" and other adaptations of the Snow White story is the character of the Queen. Instead of being a one-dimensional villain, this version of the Queen is given a more complex backstory and motivations. The Queen, whose name is never revealed, is shown to be a woman who is obsessed with beauty and youth, and who resents Snow White for being younger and fresher than her. She is portrayed as a tragic figure who is a victim of the patriarchal beauty standards that dictate a woman's worth based on her looks and her ability to attract a man.
Paula is a character who works for the Queen as a maid and has been hired to make Snow White more presentable. While Paula initially adheres to the Queen's standards for beauty, she begins to question them as she sees the harm they cause to herself and others. She ultimately decides to help Snow White defeat the Queen and bring about a more just and equal society.
Overall, "Mirror, Mirror" is a visually stunning, tongue-in-cheek retelling of Snow White that celebrates female empowerment and challenges traditional gender roles.
