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The Princess Diaries follows fifteen-year-old Mia Thermopolis as she argues with her mother and struggles at school, particularly dealing with bullying refusing to debate. However, things take a turn when her paternal grandmother, Queen Clarisse Renaldi of Genovia arrives and orders Mia to take on the role as Princess of Genovia now that her father has died.
Mia initially did not want to be a princess. She even walked away from her grandmother because of it. This is one of the film's most relatable moments along with her relationship and identity struggles. The conflict intensifies as Mia questions why her mother lied about their identity for most of her life.
The film's high school setting and focus on teenage angst and relationship make The Princess Diaries feel more like a Disney Channel film than one from Walt Disney Pictures. Especially for those who ever watched Disney Channel original movies such as High School Musical and Camp Rock, the feel can invoke nostalgia. However, it also makes the film a bit too lighthearted and pristine. The plot feels slightly predictable at times, too.
One more problem I have with the film is the meshed music. There are snippets of pop songs that play during scene transitions along with lovely classical scores that could play in a palace. The pop songs were engaging, but sticking only to the classical scores would've given the film a more classic Disney touch.
On to the characters. Anne Hathaway (pictured at top) portrays Mia as an awkward but chatty teenage girl. She starts out with curly hair, but it becomes straight nearly halfway into the film. As started above, her initial reluctance to become a proper princess under her grandmother's training is relatable. How many teenagers want a proper lifestyle? She becomes more willing to accept her new role as she grows in character throughout the film, though. Her princess gown is stunning, too, and shines alongside that of Queen Clarisse Renaldi.
Queen Clarisse Renaldi, played by the iconic Julie Andrews, shines as Mia's proper and sociable grandmother. Mia's mother Helen, an artist who also comes off as a late Boomer parent, also delivers memorable moments. A highlight is when she allows Mia to cry, which a lot of parents fail to do.
There are also the characters with Disney sitcom tropes: the mean girl cheerleaders, the girl's best friend, and the teenage boyfriend. Their interactions are resonant with Disney sitcom relationships, too.
Coming from a company that mainly produces family-oriented films, The Princess Diaries feels more like a Disney Channel teen film in several areas. I can understand why; the movie is adapted from a teen book series. Yet, there are many charms to this harmless princess film: memorable character performances, relatable moments, a lovely classical score, and uplifting messages about what a real princess is.
For viewers who are torn between Disney Channel original movies and classic Disney princess films, The Princess Diaries is a stunning compromise.
Have you seen The Princess Diaries? What do you think about it?
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