It's such a rote recitation of a story we've heard a thousand times that it's hard to imagine why on earth they're telling it to us again.

A good story can cover up all manner of sins. But that ball gown is indicative of the film's whole approach - covering a thin, needlessly bloated story with beautiful surfaces.

If the young girl who sat in front of me is to speak for children everywhere, they are going to adore this film.

With the Disney train steaming forward at full speed, hope, it seems, is once again in the air.