The world of animated films is about to get a little more enchanting with the upcoming release of Netflix's 'Steps'. This animated comedy, directed by the talented duo of Alyce Tzue and John Ripa, promises to be a delightful twist on the classic Cinderella story. With a stellar cast including Ali Wong, Stephanie Hsu, Amanda Seyfried, and the legendary Bette Midler, 'Steps' is set to captivate audiences of all ages. But what truly makes this project special is the musical genius behind it: Emmy-nominated composer Kris Bowers.
A Musical Journey
Bowers, known for his exceptional work in the industry, has been entrusted with crafting the score for 'Steps'. The recording process, which took place at the renowned Abbey Road Studios in London, was a testament to Bowers' skill and creativity. His ability to capture the essence of the characters and translate their emotions into music is truly remarkable.
In his own words, Bowers expresses his enthusiasm for the project, stating, 'I was excited about the possibility of being on 'Steps' from the very first conversation I had with Alyce Tzue and John Ripa. This story is incredibly written, incredibly acted, and incredibly animated. I feel so many layered emotions when I watch this film, and I’m just hoping that my music can speak to those feelings.'
This sentiment highlights Bowers' unique approach to composition, where he aims to evoke a range of emotions and create a memorable experience for the audience. As he explains, 'When I was a kid, the thing that made me fall in love with film music was when I could listen to the score and almost remember the entire film. And my aim always, especially with a film like 'Steps', is that someone can listen to the score by itself and remember the entire journey they felt while watching.'
A Tale of Sisterhood and Self-Discovery
'Steps' delves into the story of two sisters, Lilith and Margot, whose contrasting personalities and experiences create a fascinating dynamic. Lilith, voiced by Ali Wong, finds herself blamed for a mischievous act that turns her sister, Margot (voiced by Stephanie Hsu), into a frog. This leads to a series of events that challenge the sisters' relationship and the kingdom's order. The film explores themes of identity, belonging, and the power of kindness, all while delivering a humorous and engaging narrative.
Director Alyce Tzue shares a personal connection to the story, stating, 'Growing up as an awkward, artsy Taiwanese kid in suburban New Jersey, I often felt like an outsider, like 'happily ever after' wasn't meant for me. I wanted to create a film for everyone who has ever felt like they didn’t belong — and show how a single act of kindness can change everything.' This perspective adds a layer of depth to the film, making it a relatable and emotionally resonant experience.
A Star-Studded Cast
The voice cast of 'Steps' is truly impressive, with Daniel Radcliffe taking on the role of the royal character, and Young Mazino and Peter Dinklage bringing their unique talents to the roles of Gef and Roderick, respectively. Bette Midler's portrayal of the fairy godmother is sure to leave a lasting impression on viewers.
A Collaborative Effort
The collaboration between Bowers and the directors, Tzue and Ripa, has been described as a dream come true. Tzue praises Bowers' openness to new ideas and his ability to capture the essence of the characters, stating, 'Kris has been a dream collaborator for us on 'Steps'. He’s not only extremely talented, he’s always open to new ideas. It’s always 'yes, and,'.'
Ripa adds, 'When we first met Kris, he talked about his process — how when he sits down at the piano to explore the characters and themes, it’s the deep emotions of the characters that drive what comes out. It’s intuitive, honest, and raw. He thinks about music in ways that become essential to each character’s voice. We knew instantly that he was the right composer for 'Steps'.'
In conclusion, 'Steps' is an animated adventure that promises to entertain and inspire. With its captivating story, talented voice cast, and the masterful composition of Kris Bowers, this film is sure to leave a lasting impression on audiences worldwide. As viewers embark on this magical journey, they will find themselves immersed in a world of sisterhood, self-discovery, and the power of kindness, all set to the enchanting melodies created by Bowers.
