'Into the Woods' Review: Critics Praise Meryl Streep, Other Cast Members

"Into The Woods" is proving that a retelling of several Grimm fairy tales in the form of a musical film starring Meryl Streep, Emily Blunt, Anna Kendrick, Chris Pine and Johnny Depp can be even better than the original plays where they were based on which debuted 30 years ago.

First and foremost, the film draws attention because of its stellar cast who even contributed to the making of the film's songs. Streep, who plays the Witch, is described as central to the film by USA Today. In its review, the newspaper describes Streep's Witch as "striking with blue hair and long twisted nails." The review also puts a spotlight on the baker's wife (Emily Blunt), saying she infuses the role with the "right blend of poignancy and humor."

Deadline says the film is anything but a "Grimm" retelling of the fairy tales. It notes that the cast including Streep, Blunt, Kendrick, Depp and Pine all turned in "fine performances." The review also points out that the singing talents of several of the cast members were a "pleasant surprise."

Pine, who plays Charming in the film, gets special mention in the Vanity Fair review. His performance of "Agony," together with Billy Magnussen who plays Rapunzel's prince, is described as "wonderful." The review also states that this song is the best in the film.

Streep's performance is also highlighted in the Guardian review. The Guardian says Streep is at her best when she is "vulnerable." The publication also hails Blunt's performance in the film, saying she delivers a standout performance that is both "sweet and human." Digital Spy also highlights Streep's performance, saying that her "wicked witch livens up many a scene." However, the review says Director Rob Marshall seems unsure to whom the story should be aimed at.

Finally Variety says Marshall has managed to create a passable musical which is very much like the original Broadway play.