Donkey's Hide
Donkey's Hide

Donkey's Hide

1982Movie79 minRussian

At the festivities marking the christening of princess Theresa, daughter of King Gaston IX, a wicked fairy made a mysterious prophecy about the girl's life. Seventeen years later, Theresa falls in love with a poor prince named Jacques. Then the prophecy starts coming true...

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Insights

IMDb6.9/10
Director: Jacques DemyGenres: Fantasy, Musical, Romance

Plot Summary

A king makes a foolish promise to his dying wife: he will only remarry if he finds a bride more beautiful than her. His advisors, fearing for his sanity, suggest he marry his own daughter. To escape this fate, the princess, aided by her fairy godmother, disguises herself in a donkey skin and flees the kingdom. She travels to a neighboring land, where she takes on various humble jobs while still hiding her true identity.

Critical Reception

Donkey's Hide is a visually stunning and enchanting fairy tale musical that, while perhaps not as widely known as some of Demy's other works, is beloved by those who discover it. It's praised for its whimsical storytelling, vibrant aesthetic, and Catherine Deneuve's captivating performance.

What Reviewers Say

  • A visually opulent and dreamlike fairy tale.
  • Catherine Deneuve shines in this magical and slightly surreal musical.
  • The film's charm lies in its blend of classic fairy tale elements and a touch of melancholy.

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Fun Fact

The film is based on the fairy tale 'Peau d'âne' (Donkey Skin) by Charles Perrault, first published in 1697.

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