Film Diaries

As a little girl, I remember fantasizing about being a princess. I loved all the glamour, sparkling tiaras, and little heels. I loved the idea of love and beauty as a child, revering into a world of fantasy and adventure. Years later, still find so much joy in princesses. The dream of escaping into that world, even if just for a moment. In this article, I will share some of my favorite actresses who performed as princesses.

Anne Hathaway in The Princess Diaries (2001) Dir. Garry Marshall

Anne Hathaway plays a quirky, young girl who finds out that she is part of a royal family. I really enjoyed this story because it shows Mia Thermopolis in an authentic light. Her personality is what makes her such a unique princess and I think that’s one of the best reasons to love her. And the makeover! We all love a good makeover. I’ve seen this movie more times than I can count! Every time I’ve watched it, it makes me wish my grandmother would show up and tell me that I’m actually next in line for the throne.

Amy Adams in Enchanted (2007) Dir. Kevin Lima

Giselle, played by Amy Adams, is so charming and innocent. It takes place in New York City, where her evil Step Mother banishes her to a “place where there are no happy ever afters.” They were onto something there, ha! I loved this for it’s authenticity as well, especially the intersecting of fantasy and real world, when happy does not consistent of every single moment. Princess meets McDreamy. If you know, you know.

Brie Larson Voices Rosalina in Super Mario Galaxy (2026)

I know it’s very soon and the movie just came out but I’ve always loved Rosalina so much! Super Mario Galaxy is my favorite Mario game and to see her come to life in the movie was absolutely amazing. Directed by Aaron Horvath and Michael Jelenic and written by Matthew Fogel. Her role although from a major plot perspective, she was very essential, there was more to be desired. I can’t wait to see more in the coming years. Time to play Super Mario Galaxy again! There are still so many unanswered questions about Rosalina’s origin. We need more!

Anika Noni Rose Voices Princess Tiana in The Princess and The Frog (2009)

This was highly anticipated and greatly loved! Such a classic story brought to life in this animated movie. I love that it takes place in New Orleans, somewhere I’ve planned to visit, with the liveliness of music and joy of ambitious characters. There’s a wholesomeness about this one. The story itself is always interesting. True love isn’t about looks, it’s about what’s inside.

Naomi Scott as Princess Jasmine in Aladdin (2019) Dir. Guy Ritchie

This was one of my favorites as a young girl as I think the live action did everything it was supposed to. Although the story centers around Aladdin, there is always a magic to Princess Jasmine. As the daughter of a beautiful sultan, Aladdin won her heart through his gentle thievery and lovable qualities. Colorful, enigmatic, beautiful. Naomi is absolutely beautiful. On another note, I also LOVED Will Smith as the genie.

Thanks for reading!

All opinions expressed here are my own. This article is written for commentary and criticism purposes.