‘Red Riding Hood’ (2006): Henry Cavill Once Starred in a Forgotten Fairy Tale Musical 

Henry Cavill’s acting career had some lesser-known beginnings, such as a performance in a quirky fairy tale musical, before he became a worldwide sensation in roles like ‘Superman’ and ‘Geralt of Rivia’. Cavill played the Hunter in the 2006 film ‘Red Riding Hood’, a humorous and updated adaptation of the beloved fable by Charles Perrault. The Randal Kleiser-directed movie carved out a distinct niche for itself among fairy tale adaptations by fusing humour, fantasy, and a hint of parody.

Cavill was still establishing himself in Hollywood at the age of 23. In ‘Red Riding Hood’, Morgan Thompson’s character Red has to deliver a present to her grandma while avoiding the Big Bad Wolf. Cavill’s portrayal of the Hunter gave the story a humorous yet resourceful edge by creating a likeable and valiant figure. Additionally, Joey Fatone from NSYNC played the role of the mischievous Wolf in the movie, adding musical flair to the part. Ben Platt, who would go on to become famous in ‘Pitch Perfect’, also made his debut in ‘Red Riding Hood’.

Image Courtesy: IMDb

‘Red Riding Hood’ was not a huge hit with viewers or critics, despite its quirky charm. Not many viewers found its campy, exaggerated comedy funny, and its limited distribution made it more difficult to locate. Nevertheless, a small cult following has sprung up around the movie, especially among Cavill and NSYNC fans. Even though these early parts didn’t receive much praise, Cavill has acknowledged that they helped mould his profession.

Even while it might not have achieved the same level of success as Cavill’s other endeavours, ‘Red Riding Hood’ is nonetheless a noteworthy side project in his career since it demonstrates his early adaptability and foreshadows the more significant roles he would eventually play.

–Farheen Ali