Jacques Demy brings a classic French fairy tale to life in his shimmering, technicolor fantasy that leans heavily into the most twisted aspects of Charles Perrault’s source material. Demy displays his love for satire and all things beautiful, fully embodying the raptures of costume and production design, lighting and camera placement, melody and voice.

Continuing her working relationship with Demy, Catherine Deneuve returns as a princess who takes the untrodden path to escape being married to her own father. With the help of the ethereal and elegant lilac fairy (the divine Delphine Seyrig), the princess is encouraged to embark on a journey of independence.

Practical effects, dreamy cinematography and inspired casting choices (Jean Marais, Cocteau’s artistic and romantic muse, plays the king), instantly transport viewers into a whimsical world of transcendent medieval love.