A Cinderella Story (2004) Review in 2025
A modern retelling of the classic fairy tale Cinderella, set in a high school with a tech-savvy twist.
Family-Friendly Rating
Is this movie suitable for family viewing?
A fun, light-hearted movie suitable for family viewing, with a positive message about self-acceptance and the importance of being true to oneself.
CineReview Recommendation
A fun, light-hearted movie suitable for family viewing or for anyone looking for a romantic comedy with a positive message.
Spoiler Alert!
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The movie follows Sam Montgomery, a high school student who falls for a popular jock, Austin Ames, but struggles to express her feelings due to their different social circles. With the help of her online alias 'Fairest of them all', Sam navigates the complexities of high school relationships and ultimately wins the heart of Austin.
Review Details
story8.00/10
The story is a fun, modern retelling of the classic Cinderella tale, with a strong focus on self-acceptance and the importance of being true to oneself. The plot is engaging and easy to follow, with a satisfying conclusion.
acting8.00/10
The acting is generally strong, with Hilary Duff and Chad Michael Murray delivering solid performances. The chemistry between the leads is palpable and adds to the movie's charm.
characters8.50/10
The characters are well-developed and relatable, with Sam Montgomery being a particularly strong protagonist. Her struggles to balance her online and offline life are authentic and easy to identify with.
direction7.00/10
The direction is solid, with a good balance of humor and romance. However, some scenes feel a bit rushed and could have been expanded upon.
cinematography6.00/10
The cinematography is average, with some nice shots of the high school and its surroundings. However, the overall visual style is a bit bland and could have been more engaging.
Pros and Cons
Pros
A fun, modern retelling of the classic Cinderella tale, with a strong focus on self-acceptance and the importance of being true to oneself. The characters are well-developed and relatable, with a strong chemistry between the leads.
Cons
Some scenes feel a bit rushed and could have been expanded upon. The cinematography is average and could have been more engaging.
Notable Quotes
"I'm not a princess, I'm a hacker."
"You're not just a pretty face, you're a pretty smart face too."
