A growing trend in modern horror cinema involves reimagining classic Disney stories through a darker, more grotesque lens. While many of these films lean heavily on nostalgia-fueled shock tactics, *The Ugly Stepsister* stands out as a deeply symbolic and thought-provoking take on the well-known *Cinderella* narrative. This Norwegian body horror film draws inspiration from the original Brothers Grimm tale rather than the sanitized Disney version, offering a chilling exploration of beauty, obsession, and self-destruction.
The movie made waves during its premiere at the 2025 Sundance Film Festival, where reports surfaced of audience members feeling physically ill due to its graphic imagery. The visceral impact has translated into critical acclaim, with the film currently holding a stellar 95% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Critic Katie Rife from IGN noted that “a strong stomach is non-negotiable” when watching this intense cinematic experience, adding that it “takes the concept of suffering for beauty to graphic, nauseating extremes.”
If you're curious whether you can handle the disturbing visuals, good news: *The Ugly Stepsister* is now available to stream from the comfort (or horror) of your own home.
How to Watch *The Ugly Stepsister* Online
| Streaming Platform | Availability | Price |
| Shudder | Streaming | $7.50/month (7-day free trial available) |
| Amazon Prime Video | Rent or Buy | Varies by region |
You can currently watch *The Ugly Stepsister* on Shudder, a streaming service dedicated entirely to horror, thriller, and suspense content. A monthly subscription starts at $7.50, and new users can enjoy a 7-day free trial. Additionally, Shudder is included in AMC+ memberships. If you prefer not to add another subscription, the film is also available for digital rental or purchase on platforms like Amazon Prime Video.
This quick transition to streaming occurred less than a month after its theatrical release in the U.S., despite having premiered earlier at Sundance in January 2025 and debuting in Norway months before reaching North American theaters. Considering its independent status, *The Ugly Stepsister* enjoyed a surprisingly solid theatrical run.
What Is *The Ugly Stepsister* About?
Originally titled *Den stygge stesøsteren*, *The Ugly Stepsister* reinterprets the classic *Cinderella* fairy tale from the Brothers Grimm, not the Disney animated adaptation. As described by IGN, the film dives into brutal and agonizing cosmetic-surgery procedures—some of which are disturbingly close to historical reality. Its themes of physical transformation and societal beauty standards have drawn comparisons to last year’s critically acclaimed horror film *The Substance*.
Here is the official synopsis of the film:
Determined to outshine her beautiful stepsister, Elvira resorts to extreme measures to win the prince's heart in this dark re-imagining of the Cinderella fairy tale.
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*The Ugly Stepsister* Cast and Characters
*The Ugly Stepsister* marks the feature directorial debut of writer-director Emilie Blichfeldt. The film features a talented ensemble cast, including:
- Lea Myren as Elvira
- Thea Sofie Loch Næss as Agnes
- Ane Dahl Torp as Rebekka, the stepmother
- Flo Fagerli as Alma
- Isac Calmroth as Prince Julian
- Malte Gårdinger as Isak
- Ralph Carlsson as Otto
- Isac Aspberg as The Feinschmecker
- Albin Weidenbladh as The Omnivorous
- Oksana Czerkasyna as Cook
- Katarzyna Herman as Madame Vanja
- Adam Lundgren as Dr. Esthétique
- Willy Ramnek Petri as Frederik von Bluckfish
- Cecilia Forss as Sophie von Kronenberg
