The Unseen Magic Behind Netflix’s ‘Steps’: Why Kris Bowers’ Score Could Redefine Animated Storytelling
There’s something about animated films that feels like a time machine. They transport us back to childhood, yet somehow, they also manage to speak to the complexities of adulthood. Netflix’s upcoming animated feature, Steps, is no exception—but what’s truly fascinating is how it’s being brought to life through the lens of its composer, Kris Bowers. Personally, I think this project could be a game-changer, not just for Bowers’ career, but for how we perceive the role of music in storytelling.
The Cinderella Twist We Didn’t Know We Needed
Steps reimagines the classic Cinderella tale, focusing on the oft-misunderstood stepsisters. What makes this particularly fascinating is the film’s attempt to humanize characters traditionally labeled as villains. Lilith, voiced by Ali Wong, and Margot, voiced by Stephanie Hsu, are far from one-dimensional. They’re flawed, relatable, and deeply human. This raises a deeper question: Why do we so often reduce characters—and people—to simplistic archetypes? Director Alyce Tzue’s personal connection to the story adds another layer. Her experience as an outsider growing up in suburban New Jersey resonates with anyone who’s ever felt like they didn’t belong. In my opinion, this film isn’t just a fairy tale; it’s a mirror reflecting our own struggles with identity and acceptance.
Kris Bowers: The Emotional Architect
One thing that immediately stands out is Kris Bowers’ approach to composing. His goal isn’t just to create a soundtrack; it’s to craft an emotional journey. When he says, “I want someone to listen to the score and remember the entire film,” he’s tapping into something profound. Music has the power to bypass logic and speak directly to our hearts. What many people don’t realize is that a great score doesn’t just accompany a scene—it becomes the scene. Bowers’ ability to channel the raw emotions of the characters is what sets him apart. From my perspective, this is where Steps could truly shine. If the music can make us feel what Lilith and Margot feel, it won’t just be a film—it’ll be an experience.
The Collaborative Magic of Abbey Road Studios
Recording at Abbey Road Studios is more than a flex; it’s a nod to the legacy of storytelling through sound. What this really suggests is that Steps is aiming for a level of craftsmanship that goes beyond the typical animated feature. The fact that Bowers recorded the score in July and August, months before the film’s November release, speaks to the meticulousness of the project. In an era where so much content is rushed to meet deadlines, this attention to detail feels almost revolutionary. If you take a step back and think about it, this could be a turning point for Netflix Animation Studios, proving that in-house projects can compete with the best in the industry.
A Star-Studded Cast, But the Real Star Might Be the Music
The cast of Steps is undeniably impressive, with names like Bette Midler, Daniel Radcliffe, and Peter Dinklage. Yet, a detail that I find especially interesting is how Bowers’ score might elevate their performances. Music has a way of amplifying emotions, turning good acting into great acting. For example, imagine Amanda Seyfried’s Cinderella delivering a pivotal line—now imagine that line paired with a score that tugs at your heartstrings. That’s the power of collaboration at its finest. What this really suggests is that Steps isn’t just a showcase for its actors; it’s a platform for Bowers to redefine what a film score can achieve.
The Broader Implications: Animation as a Medium for Grown-Up Stories
Animation has long been pigeonholed as a genre for children, but Steps is part of a growing trend that challenges this notion. Films like Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse and Encanto have proven that animation can tackle complex themes with nuance and depth. Steps seems poised to join this ranks, using its fairy tale framework to explore themes of identity, redemption, and sisterhood. Personally, I think this is where animation truly excels—it allows us to confront heavy topics through a lens that feels accessible yet profound.
Final Thoughts: Why Steps Could Be the Animated Film of the Year
As someone who’s always been drawn to the intersection of music and storytelling, I’m incredibly excited for Steps. It’s not just another animated film; it’s a bold statement about the power of collaboration, the importance of representation, and the timeless appeal of a well-told story. If Bowers’ score lives up to the hype, it could become the emotional backbone of a film that challenges our perceptions of good and evil, belonging and otherness. What this really suggests is that Steps isn’t just a film—it’s a conversation starter. And in a world that often feels divided, that’s exactly what we need.
So, mark your calendars for November 20th. Because Steps isn’t just coming to Netflix—it’s coming to redefine what animation can be. And personally, I can’t wait to see—and hear—it all unfold.
