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The Royal Throwback: Best 2000s Princess Movies
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items The 2000s were a golden era for princess movies because they shifted away from the "damsel in distress" trope and introduced us to princesses who were funny, ambitious, and slightly chaotic.
It’s the ultimate "relatable" princess movie. Unlike classic fairy tales, Mia is clumsy and makes mistakes. It teaches that being a princess is less about the crown and more about the character you show when things get tough. Plus, the chemistry betw...
The Princess Diaries (2001) - IMDb
This sequel introduced us to Chris Pine. The "mattress surfing" scene is a fan favorite, showing that even a Queen-in-waiting needs a little slumber party chaos.
The Princess Diaries 2: Royal Engagement (2004) - IMDb
This movie is a brilliant deconstruction of the princess genre. It pokes fun at Disney tropes while still being a magical, feel-good film. Amy Adams’ performance is pitch-perfect, and the "That's How You Know" musical number in Central Park is still ...
Enchanted (2007) - IMDb
This is peak 2000s nostalgia. It swaps the glass slipper for a lost cell phone and a ballroom for a school dance. It’s cheesy in the best way possible and remains a "humble bestie" type of movie that reminds you to never let the fear of striking out ...
Watch A Cinderella Story | Netflix
Ella is cursed with "obedience" and must find her fairy godmother to break the spell while falling for a prince. It’s a fun, campy twist on Cinderella
Ella Enchanted (2004) - IMDb
Amanda Bynes at her funniest. It’s a "princess-by-blood" story that focuses on the bond between a father and daughter.
What a Girl Wants (2003) - IMDb
Peak Disney Channel Original Movie. Seeing Selena Gomez and Demi Lovato together at their height is pure nostalgia.
Princess Protection Program (TV Movie 2009) - IMDb
Katie Holmes gives a great performance. It’s the American version of being a princess—heavy on the duty and the paparazzi.
First Daughter (2004) - IMDb
It’s the ultimate "Summer Princess" movie. It’s all about friendship and the magic of a summer crush.
Aquamarine (2006) - IMDb
I know it’s slightly past the 2000s (2012), but it carries that exact 2000s whimsical energy. The costumes are breathtaking.
Mirror Mirror (2012) - IMDb
Again, slightly late, but it’s the spiritual successor to the 2000s princess trope. It’s the ultimate "mistaken identity" fun.
Monte Carlo (2011) - IMDb
This movie sparked a massive trend of "ordinary girl meets secret prince in college" fantasies. It was actually inspired by the real-life romance of the Danish royal family.
The Prince and Me (2004) - IMDb
While technically released in late 1998, it dominated the early 2000s home video era. Drew Barrymore’s "breathe" line and those stunning wings at the ball became the blueprint for the "strong, independent princess."
Ever After: A Cinderella Story (1998) - IMDb
Well, it's not a "real" princess movie, but it captures the "Princess Aesthetic" of the mid-2000s perfectly. Lindsay Lohan is in her prime here.
Confessions of a Teenage Drama Queen (2004) - IMDb