The Princess Diaries by Meg Cabot

The Princess Diaries, based on the first book in Cabot's series, is about Mia, who is a normally awkward girl in New York City. She goes to an exclusive prep school, where she is not popular, and lives with her mother. Her father is dead, and one day her paternal grandmother stops by to tell Mia that she is the crown princess of a small country called Genovia. Every girl's dream right? Not for Mia; she is not happy about being a princess at all. After the news, she is whisked off to Genovia to learn how to be a princess, which is no easy task. Mia is clumsy and unsophisticated. She would much rather hang out with her best friend than learn table manners and how to walk properly in heels. However, this makes for funny scenes for movie viewers. On the upside for Mia, here boyfriend prospects have improved somewhat, but will she choose the hunky, but dumb, jock she's had a crush on or the smart and caring guy who would obviously make a better prince for her? Perhaps more importantly, will Mia be able to remain true to herself or will she give in and become a royal snob?

This movie is funny and endearing. It works for all ages. Don't be scared of by the G rating, it is still fun for older teens, though this is definitely a chick flick! If you are a fan of the books, don't expect this movie to follow them closely. Right away, we learn that Mia's father is dead, which is a major departure from the books where Mia's father plays a prominent role. Other characters are different too. It is still fun to be able to watch Mia deal with etiquette and her clumsiness though!

Directed by Garry Marshall; Starring Anne Hathaway and Julie Andrews

Movie; 10+; Walt Disney, 2001