Disney’s new live-action “Cinderella” movie came in on top in the box office last weekend, and anyone who purchased a ticket knows it was money well spent.

This is a much-needed fresh take on a tale that has been around for generations. “Be kind and have courage” is first said by Cinderella’s mother before her death, and it is an echoing theme throughout the entire movie. The largest change about this movie from its predecessors it that it is based on the characters’ strengths and actions instead of only magic. Magic plays a secondary role to persistence and optimism, which are qualities Cinderella carries throughout the movie.

The old-fashioned notion that Cinderella is helpless and waiting around for a prince is swept aside in this film. Instead she is a strong, self-sufficient character who wins the prince with her wit and kind spirit instead of a magical dress. The prince goes on a journey of becoming a man worthy of Cinderella instead of being a two-dimensional character who has little to offer other than good looks. Even the evil stepmother is a more human character thanks to the writers giving her a backstory.

The costumes are bright, colorful and the ideal combination of reality mixed with fairytale perfection. Cinderella’s ball gown and glass slippers lost nothing in the transition from animation. The prince kept his dashing good looks while also having a more down-to-earth feel. The stepsisters’ dresses were the perfect amount of over-the-top for the characters’ roles.

This telling of Cinderella brought the characters to life in a relatable way that has not been portrayed before. Disney knows how to produce a quality fairytale and this movie is proof.

It is something everyone in the family would enjoy, and there is nothing scary or violent. The themes are all good lessons to take away, and you will be waltzing out of the theater after seeing this movie.