The Princess Diaries 2001 [updated]

: Modern retrospective reviews sometimes point out that the "makeover" scene—where Mia’s glasses and curls are removed to make her "beautiful"— sends mixed messages

Heather Matarazzo as best friend Lilly is a wonderfully sardonic voice of reason. Mandy Moore plays the popular mean girl Lana with just enough camp. And the late, great Robert Schwartzman as the dreamy, guitar-strumming Michael—the boy who sees Mia for who she really is—provides a low-key, sweet romance. the princess diaries 2001

As Mia navigates her new role, she must balance her desire to fit in with her new royal family and her old friends back in San Francisco. She also befriends a group of Genovian servants, including the kind-hearted and witty Genovian head of security, Paolo (Hector Elizondo). : Modern retrospective reviews sometimes point out that

But unlike other teen films from that era, The Princess Diaries doesn't rely on mean-spirited humor. There are no gross-out gags or cruel homophobia. The bullying is realistic (Lana sabotaging Mia with an ice cream sundae) but never sadistic. The film maintains a warmth that feels almost retro, reminiscent of 1950s Disney live-action films like The Parent Trap . As Mia navigates her new role, she must

Hathaway perfectly embodies awkward teen angst, physical comedy (the falls, the hair, the glasses), and genuine emotional growth. Her transformation feels earned, not just cosmetic.

Visually, the film is a time capsule. The fashion is aggressively early-2000s: Frosted lip gloss, matte eyeshadow, denim jackets, and chunky platform shoes. The soundtrack features "Miracles Happen" by Myra and "Supergirl" by Krystal—songs that scream TRL-era MTV.