Once Upon a Time

Once Upon a Time is a 1973 West German animated musical film written and directed by Roberto Gavioli and Rolf Kauka. The story is based on the German fairytale Mother Hulda. Plot Beautiful and kind-hearted Maria is the daughter of a wealthy widower father Mr. Bottle. Their lives are changed when Mary-Lou and her gypsy con artist mother arrive in town. Mary-Lou's mother tells fake fortunes for money and meets Mr. Bottle, noticing that he's wealthy. She cons him into marrying her, saying that great misfortune will befall him if he doesn't. Mary-Lou and her mother torment Maria by treating her like a servant, and Maria's father is helpless to stop them. One day during a royal hunt, the Prince of the kingdom is separated from his hunting party when he chases after a white stag. He loses the stag but stumbles upon Mary-Lou bathing in the woods and viciously chastising Maria, who is waiting on her. When Mary-Lou goes away to change, the Prince approaches the crying Maria and comforts her. Mary-Lou returns and, thinking the Prince is a common hunter, tricks him and steals his horse. The Prince and Maria spend some time alone together and fall in love. As a token, the Prince gives Maria a garnet stone necklace, telling her that it will bring them together again. They part ways. Back at their house, Mary-Lou sees Maria admiring her garnet stone necklace. Mary-Lou taunts Maria by grabbing the necklace and dropping it into a well.