Spellbound

Princess Ellian's life is turned upside down when an enchantment transforms her parents into towering creatures, leaving the kingdom in shock. Refusing to wait for someone else to fix things, she leaves the safety of the palace and crosses dangerous, enchanted lands to find a cure. Along the way she meets allies including the roguish Chilo and the earnest Orsola, faces creatures and riddles tied to the spell, and learns more about the limits and costs of magic. The story focuses on her determination to restore her family while racing against time and rising threats.

Released in 2024, Spellbound is an animated fantasy created by Alan Menken, Glenn Slater, and Elizabeth Martin, with Menken supplying the musical backbone that frames the film's tone and emotional beats.

The film opened in theaters in 2024 and performed solidly with family audiences, though it didn't top blockbuster charts. Box office coverage varied by region, and the picture found much of its audience through word of mouth and home streaming after the theatrical run.

Early cultural attention centered on Rachel Zegler's vocal lead and Alan Menken's return to a family musical format, which sparked conversations on social media about a modern take on animated fairy tales. Fans highlighted the designs of the enchanted creatures and a few standout musical numbers, helping the movie gain a steady fanbase among younger viewers.

Critical response leaned mixed-to-positive, reflected in a user vote average around 6.6 out of 10 from several hundred votes. Reviewers tended to praise the score, animation style, and family themes, while some noted pacing issues and predictable plot beats. Major themes include the bonds of family, responsibility and the ethical use of magic, presented in a manner meant to be accessible to children and appealing to adult viewers who enjoy musical fantasy.