AceShowbiz - Steps is an upcoming animated film from Netflix Animation Studios, featuring a fresh take on the classic Cinderella story. The movie introduces a unique twist by focusing on the 'evil' stepsister Lilith and her unexpected alliance with Cinderella to save their kingdom.

The legendary actress and singer Bette Midler will lend her voice to the Fairy Godmother in this new project, marking the first fully in-house production by Netflix Animation. Midler describes her version of the Fairy Godmother as someone with good intentions but also a bit of a bumbler and schemer, adding complexity to the traditionally wholesome character.

Joining Bette Midler in the voice cast are Ali Wong as Lilith, Amanda Seyfried as Cinderella, and Stephanie Hsu as Margot. The story centers on Lilith, who steals the Fairy Godmother’s magic wand and disrupts the Royal Ball, causing the kingdom to fall under the rule of Priscilla, a villainous character who seizes the throne.

Faced with this threat, Lilith must team up with Cinderella to restore order and mend their fractured relationship. This narrative shift challenges the traditional fairy tale, presenting a more nuanced view of the characters and their motivations.

The film is directed by Alyce Tzue and John Ripa, with production involvement from Amy Poehler, Jane Hartwell, and Kim Lessing. Amy Poehler's Paper Kite Productions is also attached to the project, adding to its creative team.

Steps is anticipated to premiere this year, marking a significant release for Netflix Animation as it showcases original storytelling with a star-studded voice cast. Bette Midler expressed excitement about her role, emphasizing the fresh take on the Fairy Godmother character that blends charm with a touch of mischief.

This reimagining promises to offer audiences a new perspective on a timeless story, combining humor, heart, and a modern sensibility in an animated format. Fans of the genre and the original tale alike will likely find something engaging in this innovative retelling.