The Slipper Still Fits

Despite a rushed three-year schedule from start to finish, and a relatively tight budget, the film touts a higher quality in art and story than most other straight-to-DVD sequels. One method was by limiting ancillary characters, so Jaq and Gus are the only two mice we see in the film. “It was important to make sure Gus and Jaq were clearly differentiated in their character relationships,” says Nissen. “Equally important was making sure they really help Cinderella in tangible ways that make a difference to our story. I wanted to make sure all the characters had stuff to do, so I told the story people to think about what the scene is about, and what the characters could be doing while they are saying their lines. I think that’s part of what gives the film a feeling of richness and activity.”