Is The Ugly Stepsister the Best Horror Film of 2025?

A Dark Fairy TalThe Ugly Stepsister Unveiled

Imagine a world where beauty isn’t just skin deep, but a trial by fire. That’s precisely what unfolds in The Ugly Stepsister, a gripping horror film that has taken audiences by storm since its early 2025 release. The haunting retelling of the classic Cinderella story lingers in the minds of viewers, igniting discussions about beauty, envy, and the extremes one will go to for love.

This Norwegian-language film marks the directorial debut of Emilie Blichfeldt, whose bold vision encapsulates a twisted narrative that flips fairy tale norms on their head. Through the eyes of Elvira, we watch as she competes fiercely with her beautiful sister for the prince’s affection. But this isn’t just a story about love; it’s an unsettling exploration of societal pressures around beauty, as Elvira undertakes drastic, even horrifying steps to catch his eye.

Many critics have drawn comparisons between the film’s themes and those found in the Oscar-winning The Substance. One review on Rotten Tomatoes remarked, “If The Substance turned it up to 11, The Ugly Stepsister clocks in at a solid 10.” Both films serve as poignant commentaries on women’s beauty standards and highlight the lengths to which women will go to fit into an ideal molded by a patriarchal society.

The Visual Poetry of Body Horror

The Mirror US praised Blichfeldt’s unique vision, calling her interpretation of Cinderella “heartbreaking” and “twisted.” Cinematographer Marcel Zyskind amplifies the film’s cold atmosphere with mesmerizing visuals that draw viewers into a suffocating world of dread and desperation. Disturbing scenes unfold, showcasing the sisters undergoing agonizing plastic surgeries, one even resorting to ingesting a tapeworm to shed pounds. As Elvira spirals into malnourished madness, the stakes heighten as they prepare for the grand ball where the prince awaits.

With a relatively unknown cast featuring Lea Myren and Thea Sofie Loch Naess, the performances resonate deeply, labeled as a “breath of fresh air” amidst compelling storytelling. Their portrayals, coupled with a powerful script, have sparked conversations that dig deep into contemporary issues like body dysmorphia and narcissism. A reviewer aptly noted, “It has poignant body horror to go along with the themes of body dysmorphia and narcissism, with a heavy synth score reminiscent of the dark fantasy subgenre of the 1980s.”

As discussions around beauty and self-identity intensify, audiences are left captivated, unsettled yet compelled to reflect. This film isn’t just for horror enthusiasts; it’s for anyone who has ever felt the weight of societal expectations. Critics agreThe Ugly Stepsister is a wild ride filled with intense body horror and top-notch performances. It’s a psychological exploration of a beloved fairy tale that dives deep into the dark crevices of envy and ambition.

For those craving a spine-chilling experience, The Ugly Stepsister is now available for streaming on Amazon Prime, making it a must-watch this season.