The Princess Diaries (Feature Film)

Bibliographic Information

Marshall, G. (Director), & Houston, W. (Producer). (2001). The Princess Diaries. USA: Walt Disney Pictures

Plot Summary

Awkward nobody Mia Thermopolis gets the shock of her life when she discovers that she's the heir to the throne of Genovia. Under the tutelage of her grandmother, she alters her appearance and demeanor to become the princess she needs to be. Her new role garners the jealousy of other girls in the school, including her own best friend.

Review

Like many tweens and teens, the bullying Mia experiences is a result of jealousy. It's particularly obvious coming from her best friend, who harps on Mia's transformation and calls her a sell-out. The exclusion and mockery Mia faces at the beginning of the film is due to her shyness and inability to speak in public. Often tweens and teens are bullied because of reclusive personalities or the inability to perform a task that gives them status, like sports. The film shows that aspect of bullying with how Mia is treated.