Open the Time Portal! Review of 'Anastasia: Once Upon a Time' When a Russian Princess is Reborn in America

If you're looking for a family film that blends history with time-travel fantasy, Anastasia: Once Upon a Time might be an option you're interested in. But before you hit play, read this review from our editorial team first. The film tells the story of Princess Anastasia who escapes Vladimir Lenin through a time portal to Madison in 1988. Will it be as fun as rumored, or just an ordinary family film? Let's find out.

Plot Summary (No Spoilers)

The film opens in Russia in 1918 during the revolution. Princess Anastasia (Emily Carey), age 17, is targeted for assassination by Vladimir Lenin (Jo Koy), but she escapes through a mysterious time portal to Madison, Wisconsin in 1988. She is found by a family with daughters named Megan (Amiah Miller) and Beatrice (Kendall Vertes). Anastasia must adapt to life in the modern era while hiding from Lenin who pursues her across time. The story unfolds with friendship, understanding, and self-discovery, without spoiling the ending. The film focuses more on adventure and family relationships than intense action.

Acting and Characters

Emily Carey as Anastasia does a decent job as a princess out of place in the 80s world. She conveys curiosity and determination convincingly. Brandon Routh plays Czar Nicholas, Anastasia's father, appearing in flashbacks. Though his role is small, it's warm. Amiah Miller and Kendall Vertes as sisters Megan and Beatrice add color to the film. Their relationship with Anastasia is the heart of the story. However, Jo Koy as Vladimir Lenin isn't as menacing as he should be. His performance is somewhat over-the-top and inconsistent with the film's tone that tries to be serious at times. Other supporting actors like Shanna Collins and the child actors perform adequately.

Direction, Cinematography, and Music

Blake Harris, the director, previously made films like The Dog Who Saved the Holidays, indicating a family-friendly style focused on lighthearted fun. In this film, he continues that approach. The cinematography is fairly simple, with no standout shots. The use of bright colors in 80s scenes helps create atmosphere, but transitions between eras are not smooth. The score by Jamie Christopherson evokes adventure but lacks memorable tunes. Overall, the technical aspects are average—not bad, but not impressive.

Editorial Analysis

As a family film, Anastasia: Once Upon a Time has an interesting concept: bringing a historical princess into the modern world. However, the execution lacks intensity. The film tries to weave in themes of adaptation and family, but they are presented superficially. The villain Lenin is portrayed as comical, undermining any threat and removing tension. The film is suitable for young children who don't need complexity, but for adults or teens, it may feel lacking in depth and emotional engagement. Additionally, the time portal mechanic is not clearly explained, creating logical loopholes. On the plus side, the film benefits from the charm of the child actors and a warm family atmosphere. If you keep your expectations low and want something easy to watch, this film works.

Verdict

Anastasia: Once Upon a Time is a family film suitable for young children who enjoy simple fun, but it doesn't quite satisfy adults or teens expecting deeper content. If you want something light to watch with your kids, it's acceptable, but if you're looking for high-quality adventure, you might want to look elsewhere.