Netflix's forthcoming animated feature, "Steps," is set to revolutionize the classic Cinderella narrative, presenting it through the eyes of the often-maligned stepsister, Lilith. Co-directed by Alyce Tzue and John Ripa, this film promises a contemporary reinterpretation, emphasizing themes of empathy, inclusivity, and the profound bonds of sisterhood. The project is deeply personal for Tzue, who drew inspiration from her own experiences of feeling like an outsider while growing up, aiming to infuse the story with a relatable sense of longing and self-discovery. By delving into the motivations and inner world of a character traditionally cast as a villain, "Steps" seeks to challenge preconceived notions and offer a richer, more nuanced understanding of fairy tale archetypes.

Alyce Tzue's journey to co-directing "Steps" is rooted in a childhood fascination with fairy tales, coupled with a unique perspective shaped by her identity as the sole Asian child in her New Jersey community. This dual lens led her to question the conventional narratives, particularly the fate of Cinderella's stepsisters, and to envision a world where every character, even the seemingly villainous, harbors their own magical potential and complexities. John Ripa, co-director and a creative force behind Disney's "Raya and the Last Dragon," brings a wealth of experience in crafting compelling animated stories. He highlights the diverse origins of the Cinderella myth, noting how various cultural interpretations have introduced different elements like the stepmother in Chinese versions or the stepsisters in Italian tales. This global tapestry of storytelling informs "Steps," allowing the creators to weave together historical richness with a modern sensibility, providing fresh angles on iconic moments that audiences cherish.

The narrative of "Steps" kicks off after the Fairy Godmother, voiced by Bette Midler, bestows her magic upon Cinderella, played by Amanda Seyfried. Driven by a desire for her own enchantment, Lilith, portrayed by Ali Wong, attempts to conjure magic, inadvertently transforming her sister Margot, voiced by Stephanie Hsu, into a frog. This magical mishap unleashes a wave of chaos across the kingdom, setting Lilith on an unexpected quest. Tzue shares that Lilith's character, despite her rebellious facade, is deeply relatable, embodying the spirit of someone who yearns for acceptance but is met with rejection. Tzue sees a piece of herself in Lilith, admiring the character's bravery and rebellious streak—qualities she wished she possessed more of in her youth. This personal connection injects an authentic emotional depth into Lilith, transforming her from a one-dimensional antagonist into a complex and aspiring protagonist.

As the story unfolds, Cinderella and Lilith must unite to reverse the magical curse and thwart the machinations of Priscilla, voiced by Nikki Glaser, who schemes to seize control of the kingdom. Tzue explains that Priscilla's villainy stems from insecurity, a desire to emulate Cinderella's perceived perfection within a society that champions a singular ideal of beauty. This social dynamic, where conformity is celebrated, inevitably creates outcasts like Lilith and those, like Priscilla, driven to malevolence by feelings of inadequacy. The film's visual aesthetic, inspired by the French Rococo movement and the French "Cendrillon," employs a pastel palette to symbolize societal conformity. As Lilith and Cinderella venture beyond the kingdom's confines, the color scheme shifts to bolder, more natural hues, reflecting their journey of self-discovery and challenging the narrow confines of conventional beauty. Tzue emphasizes the commitment to designing a diverse cast of female characters, ensuring that their physical appearances mirror the rich tapestry of their personalities, thus breaking away from stereotypical representations.

John Ripa's previous work on Disney's "Frozen," a film celebrated for its focus on sisterhood over romantic love, made him an ideal partner for Tzue on "Steps." Tzue, a fervent admirer of "Frozen," acknowledges its thematic resonance but stresses that "Steps" aims to carve its own path, contributing to the growing body of stories that champion female friendships. The success of Netflix's "Kpop Demon Hunters" in 2025 further underscores the audience's appetite for diverse and empowering narratives, a demand that "Steps" is poised to meet with its distinctive soundtrack, blending contemporary needle drops with original compositions. Tzue expresses immense gratitude for Netflix's support, which allowed her and Ripa to develop their unique vision without pressure to mimic previous successes. The co-directors share a common goal: to inspire viewers with messages of empathy, inclusion, and belonging. "If we can inspire even one person to stand up for someone that feels different, we will have done our jobs," Tzue articulates, underscoring the film's profound aspirational message.