An easy-going chick-flick with some wonderful actresses. ( )

A schmaltzy Disney film on a Cinderella theme, but very enjoyable for a relaxing evening in. The plot is probably well-known: Mia, a gauche, clumsy teenage American girl who tries hard to be invisible at school suddenly learns that her grandmother is Queen of a small European country. And as her father (whom she never knew) recently died, Mia is heir apparent to the throne of this country. She is appalled at first, but agrees to some 'princess lessons' and a makeover, and is gradually transformed.

Julie Andrews is perfect as the royal grandmother, and Anne Hathaway as Mia is excellent too - she manages both the awkward clumsy stage and the increasing elegancy of the transformation. There are some delightful scenes with the two of them together, and a few low-key ethical issues such as the shallowness of high school cheerleaders and sports stars, and the need for people to stand up for what they believe in.

I found it very enjoyable, and my husband enjoyed it too, rather to his surprise.

There are a few extras; we enjoyed the behind-the-scenes shots and descriptions of how the cast gelled together, and how the film was put together. ( )

Summary: "Your basic Cinderella makeover story with a fresh and affectionate twist. Mia is a frizzy-haired, glasses-wearing 15-year-old girl whose two highest ambitions are to become invisible and to get a few kisses from an attractive school heartthrob. She is stunned and horrified when her coolly continental grandmother shows up and informs her that she's the crown princess of the European principality Genovia. Soon enough, Mia has to undertake "princess lessons" (and a makeover) from her queenly grandmother, and eventually she blossoms into a confident, radiant girl." (from Worldcat.org) ( )

Special Edition) (2001)
Starring: Julie Andrews, Anne Hathaway Director: Garry Marshall Rating G