The live action Cinderella, released in 2015 and directed by Kenneth Branagh follows the same narrative as the original; After the untimely death of her father, Ella is troubled by her stepmother and stepsisters. However, her life changes forever after dancing with a charming stranger at the Royal Ball.
The target audience of Cinderella would likely be for young children who haven't necessarily grown up with the original. Alternatively, another audience that may be targeted would be people who have watched the original, who are big fans of the previous film and are curious to see the how the new adaptation will play out.
The preferred reading of this film would be for people to view it as a wonderful remake of the original with incredible visuals and casting. However, some might take a negotiated reading because they may feel that a remake isn't necessary and that Disney should focus on more innovative and original films. Despite this, they may still enjoy the film however they feel it is a little bit needless. Another reading could be that while people agree that a remake would be fun for newer and younger generations, they may feel that the representation of women in Cinderella is old fashioned and outdated.
Finally an oppositional reading may be taken if they aren't a fan of Disney's work and believe them to be profit driven. Another reading could be that they don't agree with the representation of women in the film and therefore refuse to watch it. Here are some actual reviews of the film:
Preferred:
'There really is no other word to describe this film other than enchanting'
'Kenneth Branagh's updates on Disney's classic damsel-in-distress scenario are inspiring. Seeing a live-action "Cinderella" on horseback is a true treat.'
'Simple yet utterly charming. Cinderella never tries to ground its story in realism but rather embraces the magic of Disney.'
Negotiated:
'There's plenty to like, and a little to love.'
'There are moments of CGI animal nonsense that seem to exist completely separate from the live-action beauty Branagh has created, and that awkward juxtaposition leaves the entire film feeling uneven, at times admirable, and at others condemnable.'
'...the costumes and set designs are extraordinarily well-done, giving the film a real fairy tale-like quality. However, the writers don't really do anything new with the story, and most of the characters are one-dimensional. Yet overall, Disney's Cinderella is a magical family film that maintains the charm and beauty of the animated original.'
Oppositional:
'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.'
'Yes it's pretty, yes it's "traditional" but It's also mind-numbingly dull. Say what you will about Disney's animated version of this fairy tale but at least it had personality.'