The Princess Diaries

Mia Thermopolis is a bright but awkward fifteen year old living with her artist mom in San Francisco. She stumbles into a life changing secret when her late father’s side of the family reveals that he was Genovia's crown prince, making her the royal heir. With the help of her formidable grandmother Queen Clarisse, Mia is asked to decide whether to abandon the safety of her ordinary high school world or step into a public role she never imagined. The film follows her attempts to balance classes, exams, and a growing crush while catching the eye of a new circle of peers. A loyal friend named Lilly keeps her honest through the chaos. Her world tightens as pressures build daily.

Garry Marshall directed the film released in 2001 by Disney, adapting Meg Cabot's bestselling novel with a script by Gina Wendkos. The ensemble blends light comedy with fluttering romance and family friendly spectacle that resonated with teens and parents alike.

The film proved a box office hit, totaling roughly 235 million dollars worldwide. Its success helped launch Anne Hathaway into leading roles and solidified Disney's appeal for teen friendly comedies, while cementing Garry Marshall's knack for warm crowd pleasers worldwide.

The movie left a lasting imprint on pop culture with Mia's makeover and Clarisse's polished confidence becoming shorthand for a princess persona. It also sparked a renewed interest in Genovia as a charming fictional getaway in films and fashion, inspiring fan art and themed celebrations and inspiring fan costume trends.

Critics welcomed its light touch and Hathaway's warm, comic performance, pairing humor with themes of identity, responsibility, and balancing fame with a normal life. The film is often cited as a feel good gateway to later teen comedies and a family favorite around holidays and weekends for many families worldwide.