A CINDERELLA STORY REVIEW

*MAY CONTAIN SPOILERS*

Hilary Duff and Chad Michael Murray star as Cinderella and Prince Charming in A Cinderella Story, a modern take on the classic fairytale, 

There have been many adaptations of Cinderella but the one that comes to mind is the Disney animated film. While that is an enjoyable film on its own, A Cinderella Story is my favourite adaptation.

'Cinderella' is Sam Montgomery (Hilary Duff) who, after her father dies in an earthquake, is forced to live with her self-obsessed stepmother, Fiona (Jennifer Coolidge) and two ugly stepsisters, Brianna (Madeline Zima) and Gabriella (Andrea Avery). She lives a difficult life, cooking for Fiona, working at her late father's diner and being teased at high school. Fortunately, instead of mice, she has a loyal friend, Carter (Dan Byrd) and a online relationship with someone known as 'Nomad'. What she doesn't know, though, is that Nomad is the 'Prince Charming' of the story, Austin Ames. Unfortunately, despite being at the same high school, the two have only communicated through text and email. However, an opportunity arises for the two to finally meet, when Noman invites Sam to their school's annual Halloween ball. Will the two finally meet and get their happily ever after? You'll have to watch and see.

I thought that this is a great adaptation of a beloved fairytale. Duff gives a strong performance as Sam. She is likable and many young girls will probably relate to her situation (the annoying stepmother, not fitting in at high school and a tiring job). Murray is a good choice for the Prince Charming of the film, Austin. Depsite being one of the popular guys and having a relationship with Shelby (Julie Gonzalo), he isn't happy. He wants to go to Princeton, which is against his father's wishes. One of the things that is most important in romantic comedies is chemistry between the two protagonists. Fortunately, Duff and Murray both have great chemistry together, especially when their characters finally meet in person at the school dance. Another character I enjoyed watching is Wanda (Regina King) who works at the same diner as Sam and is the Fairy Godmother of the film. She is loyal to Sam and wants what is best for her. She encourages her to go to the ball and even gives Sam her wedding dress to wear. She's one of the funniest characters as she stands up to Fiona.

I remember when I first watched this film in cinema at the age of 7 and loving it. Over a decade later, it's still one of my favourite films.

To sum up, A Cinderella Story is a modern take on the well-known fairytale that is full of humour.

8/10