13 Best Movies Like Cinderella | Similar-List

Cinderella-based movies have always held a special place in audiences' hearts, captivating us with their enchanting tales of transformation and true love.

Cinderella's "rags to riches" story has been adapted countless times in Hollywood, each version bringing a unique twist to the timeless tale. From animated classics to modern reinterpretations, these films resonate with viewers of all ages, blending magic, romance, and life lessons.

Dive into our list of Cinderella-based movies and vote for your favorites! Your input can help re-rank these beloved films.

13 Best Movies Like Cinderella

Cinderella (2015)

• Actors and Director: Lily James, Cate Blanchett, Richard Madden
• Release Year and Director: Released: 2015, Directed by: Kenneth Branagh
• Synopsis: Lily James enchants as the young, oppressed orphan transforms into a radiant beauty with the help of her benevolent Fairy Godmother, played by Helena Bonham Carter. Cate Blanchett delivers a chilling performance as the wicked stepmother, and Kenneth Branagh's masterful direction elevates the film to a truly magical experience, combining stunning visuals and heartfelt moments.
• Sandy Powell's Academy Award-nominated costume design enhanced the film's visual spectacle, intricately capturing the elegance of the period and characters. Lily James's portrayal underscores the fairy tale's timeless themes of kindness and resilience, resonating deeply with audiences seeking nostalgia and new magic.

A Cinderella Story (2004)

• Actors and Director: Hilary Duff, Jennifer Coolidge, Chad Michael Murray
• Release Year and Director: Released: 2004, Directed by: Mark Rosman
• Synopsis: Hilary Duff stars as Sam Montgomery, a high school student living a miserable life due to her demanding stepmother (Jennifer Coolidge) and stepsisters. Dreaming of a better life, she finds solace in an online relationship with a mysterious pen pal, who turns out to be the charming school quarterback, Austin Ames (Chad Michael Murray). Their eventual real-life encounter at the school dance leads to a heartwarming finale where true love conquers all, and Sam embraces her true self.
• The film cleverly updates the Cinderella tale to a contemporary high school setting, making it accessible and relatable to young audiences. Hilary Duff's portrayal of Sam balances vulnerability with resilience, portraying a modern heroine who stands up against adversity and finds her voice. Jennifer Coolidge adds comedic flair as the over-the-top stepmother, contrasting with Sam's journey of self-discovery and empowerment.

The Princess Diaries (2001)

• Actors and Director: Julie Andrews, Anne Hathaway, Héctor Elizondo
• Release Year and Director: Released: 2001, Directed by: Garry Marshall
• Synopsis: Anne Hathaway shines as Mia Thermopolis, a socially awkward teenager who discovers she's heir to the throne of a European principality, Genovia. Guided by her regal grandmother, Queen Clarisse Renaldi (Julie Andrews), Mia navigates the challenges of royal life while grappling with her insecurities. The film is a delightful blend of comedy, romance, and coming-of-age drama, capturing Mia's transformation from a clumsy teenager into a confident young woman.
• Julie Andrews's portrayal of Queen Clarisse brings regal elegance and wisdom as a mentor and comedic foil to Mia's journey. The film's witty screenplay and heartfelt performances resonate with audiences, offering a modern twist on the Cinderella trope through Mia's discovery of her royal heritage and inner strength.

Ella Enchanted (2004)

• Actors and Director: Anne Hathaway, Hugh Dancy, Cary Elwes
• Release Year and Director: Released: 2004, Directed by: Tommy O'Haver
• Synopsis: Anne Hathaway stars as Ella, a young woman cursed with the "gift" of obedience by her fairy godmother at birth. This curse forces her to obey any command, whether it's to hop on one foot for a day or to steal something. Despite her struggles, Ella remains determined to break the curse and regain control over her life. She encounters various colorful characters along her journey, including a charming prince named Charmont (Hugh Dancy) and his conniving uncle Sir Edgar (Cary Elwes). Through wit, bravery, and a touch of magic, Ella embarks on a quest to find her path to happiness, challenging the conventions of her society.
• The film is not just a fairy tale but also a social commentary on issues like individuality, freedom, and the courage to defy societal norms. Anne Hathaway's portrayal of Ella combines vulnerability with strength, making her a relatable heroine for audiences of all ages. The movie's blend of humor, adventure, romance, vibrant medieval setting, and whimsical costumes create a richly immersive world that enchants viewers from start to finish.

Ever After (1998)

• Actors and Director: Drew Barrymore, Anjelica Huston, Dougray Scott
• Release Year and Director: Released: 1998, Directed by: Andy Tennant
• Synopsis: Drew Barrymore stars as Danielle de Barbara, a spirited young woman living in 16th-century France. Following the death of her beloved father, Danielle becomes a servant in her home, where she meets Prince Henry (Dougray Scott). Unlike traditional Cinderella tales, Danielle is not a passive victim but a resilient and intelligent character who challenges social norms and fights for justice. Her relationship with Prince Henry develops gradually, based on mutual respect and admiration rather than instant infatuation. Anjelica Huston portrays the formidable Baroness Rodmilla de Ghent, Danielle's stepmother, with a complexity that adds depth to the story's conflict. The film's historical accuracy, lush cinematography, and strong feminist undertones set it apart, making it a Cinderella story emphasizing empowerment and self-determination.
• "Ever After" is not just a fairy tale romance but a thoughtful exploration of social class, gender roles, and the power of education. Danielle's determination to defy expectations and pursue her destiny resonates with modern audiences, offering a refreshing twist on the traditional Cinderella narrative. The film's emphasis on character development, sumptuous production design, and witty dialogue ensure a timeless appeal that continues to enchant viewers.

A Cinderella Story: Once Upon a Song (2011)

• Actors and Director: Lucy Hale, Freddie Stroma, Megan Park
• Release Year and Director: Released: 2011, Directed by: Damon Santostefano
• Synopsis: Lucy Hale stars as Katie Gibbs, a talented young singer whose dreams of pursuing her musical ambitions are hindered by her stepmother and stepsister. Encouraged by her supportive friend and the memory of her late mother, Katie seizes the opportunity to showcase her talent when invited to a prestigious musical competition. Along the way, she navigates family dynamics and discovers unexpected allies, including a handsome, aspiring songwriter named Luke (Freddie Stroma). Through perseverance and determination, Katie learns to believe in herself and pursue her dreams despite the obstacles in her path.
• "A Cinderella Story: Once Upon a Song" stands out for its emphasis on music as a vehicle for self-expression and empowerment. Lucy Hale's performance and the film's engaging soundtrack contribute to its appeal, blending modern themes with the classic Cinderella story of overcoming adversity and finding true happiness.

The Princess Diaries 2: Royal Engagement (2004)

• Actors and Director: Anne Hathaway, Julie Andrews, Héctor Elizondo
• Release Year and Director: Released: 2004, Directed by: Garry Marshall
• Synopsis: In this sequel, Mia Thermopolis (Anne Hathaway) faces new challenges as she prepares to ascend the throne of Genovia. Pressure mounts as she must marry within a month to retain her royal title, leading to a whirlwind of romantic entanglements and humorous mishaps. Mia navigates the complexities of duty versus personal desires with the support of her loyal friends and grandmother, Queen Clarisse (Julie Andrews). The film offers a modern twist on the Cinderella trope, emphasizing Mia's journey of self-discovery and her determination to lead with integrity and compassion.
• "The Princess Diaries 2: Royal Engagement" expands on Mia's character development, showcasing her growth from an awkward teenager to a confident young woman ready to embrace her royal responsibilities. Anne Hathaway and Julie Andrews deliver captivating performances that underscore the film's humor and heartwarming moments. The sequel's exploration of familial expectations and romantic aspirations adds depth to its light-hearted narrative, making it a memorable continuation of Mia's royal journey.

Another Cinderella Story (2008)

• Actors and Director: Selena Gomez, Drew Seeley, Jane Lynch
• Release Year and Director: Released: 2008, Directed by: Damon Santostefano
• Synopsis: In this modern retelling of the Cinderella story, Mary (Selena Gomez) dreams of becoming a dancer despite the challenges posed by her stepmother and stepsisters. When pop star Joey Parker (Drew Seeley) holds a masquerade ball where Mary catches his eye, the stage is set for a romantic dance and a journey of self-discovery. The film blends music, dance, and romance against a high school backdrop, offering a contemporary twist on the classic fairy tale.
• "Another Cinderella Story" captivates with its focus on dance as a means of expression and connection. Selena Gomez shines in the role of Mary, showcasing her talent alongside Drew Seeley's charismatic portrayal of Joey. The film's lively choreography and catchy soundtrack enhance its appeal, making it a delightful addition to the Cinderella genre.

A Cinderella Story: If the Shoe Fits (2016)

• Actors and Director: Sofia Carson, Jennifer Tilly, Thomas Law
• Release Year and Director: Released: 2016, Directed by: Michelle Johnston
• Synopsis: Tessa Golding (Sofia Carson), an aspiring songwriter, finds herself at odds with her stepmother (Jennifer Tilly) and stepsisters while working as their assistant. When an opportunity arises to audition for a Cinderella musical, Tessa seizes the chance to pursue her dreams despite the obstacles in her path. Tessa discovers her true voice and inner strength with encouragement from her co-star Reed (Thomas Law) and guidance from her fairy godmother (Nicole Fortuin).
• "A Cinderella Story: If the Shoe Fits" combines music, humor, and modern twists to portray Tessa's journey. Sofia Carson delivers a compelling performance, showcasing her musical talents and portraying Tessa's determination to break free from her stepmother's control. The film's colorful production design and energetic musical numbers add vibrancy to its Cinderella narrative, offering a fresh take on the beloved fairy tale.

Enchanted (2007)

• Actors and Director: Amy Adams, Patrick Dempsey, James Marsden
• Release Year and Director: Released: 2007, Directed by: Kevin Lima
• Synopsis: "Enchanted" introduces us to Giselle (Amy Adams), a fairy tale princess-to-be who is banished by an evil queen (Susan Sarandon) from her animated kingdom to the chaotic streets of modern-day New York City. As Giselle navigates the challenges of the real world, she meets divorce lawyer Robert (Patrick Dempsey) and begins questioning her fairy-tale notions of love and happiness. Filled with humor, musical numbers, and heartfelt moments, the film blends animated fantasy with live-action romance.
• Amy Adams shines in her portrayal of Giselle, capturing both the innocence and optimism of a fairy tale princess. The film's clever satire on traditional fairy tale tropes and its juxtaposition of animated wonder with urban reality provides a whimsical and refreshing twist on the Cinderella narrative. James Marsden's portrayal of Prince Edward and the film's enchanting musical sequences further enhance its appeal, making "Enchanted" a beloved modern classic.

The Prince and Me (2004)

• Actors and Director: Julia Stiles, Luke Mably, Miranda Richardson
• Release Year and Director: Released: 2004, Directed by: Martha Coolidge
• Synopsis: In "The Prince and Me," Paige (Julia Stiles), a focused and ambitious college student, crosses paths with Eddie (Luke Mably), a charming and mysterious foreign exchange student. Unbeknownst to Paige, Eddie is Prince Edvard of Denmark, incognito and eager to experience a normal life. As their relationship blossoms, Paige discovers Eddie's royal identity, forcing them to confront the challenges of love and duty. The film blends romance, comedy, and the allure of royalty in a captivating modern fairy tale.
• Julia Stiles delivers a strong performance as Paige, portraying a character torn between her academic pursuits and unexpected romance with a prince. Luke Mably's portrayal of Prince Edvard balances charm and vulnerability, adding depth to their evolving relationship. "The Prince and Me" explores themes of identity and sacrifice against a backdrop of picturesque settings and royal traditions, offering a contemporary twist on the Cinderella story.

Cinderella (1950)

• Actors and Director: Ilene Woods (voice), Eleanor Audley (voice), Verna Felton (voice)
• Release Year and Director: Released: 1950, Directed by: Clyde Geronimi, Wilfred Jackson, Hamilton Luske
• Synopsis: Disney's animated classic "Cinderella" tells the story of a young woman living under the tyranny of her cruel stepmother and stepsisters. With the help of her Fairy Godmother, Cinderella attends the royal ball and captures the heart of Prince Charming. The film showcases timeless themes of kindness, resilience, and the transformative power of love, set against a backdrop of magical fairy tale enchantment.
• "Cinderella" (1950) remains a quintessential Disney masterpiece, celebrated for its beautiful animation, memorable musical score, and enduring fairy tale charm. Ilene Woods' gentle voice brings Cinderella to life with grace and poise, while Eleanor Audley's portrayal of the malevolent Lady Tremaine adds depth to the story's conflict. The film's enduring popularity and cultural impact make it a beloved cornerstone of the Cinderella genre.

What a Girl Wants (2003)

• Actors and Director: Amanda Bynes, Colin Firth, Kelly Preston
• Release Year and Director: Released: 2003, Directed by: Dennie Gordon
• Synopsis: In "What a Girl Wants," American teenager Daphne Reynolds (Amanda Bynes) travels to London to meet her long-lost father, Lord Henry Dashwood (Colin Firth), who is unaware of her existence. Daphne's arrival disrupts her father's aristocratic lifestyle and sparks a journey of self-discovery as she navigates the complexities of British high society. Along the way, Daphne discovers the importance of staying true to oneself and embracing one's roots, culminating in a heartwarming tale of family and acceptance.
• Amanda Bynes shines in the role of Daphne, infusing her character with humor and resilience as she adapts to the aristocratic world of her father. Colin Firth delivers a charismatic performance as Lord Henry, capturing the challenges and growth of his relationship with Daphne. "What a Girl Wants" blends fish-out-of-water comedy with heartfelt familial themes, offering a modern twist on the Cinderella narrative set against the backdrop of London's historic landmarks.

Movies like Cinderella continue to captivate audiences with their timeless tales of transformation and true love. From animated classics to modern reinterpretations, these films offer something for everyone, blending magic, romance, and life lessons.