I love a smart heroine -- not to mention a hero who falls first and fast!
If you haven’t seen Ever After, drop everything and add it to your must-watch list! This 1998 gem is a wonderful retelling of Cinderella, set in Renaissance-ish France. Starring Drew Barrymore as Danielle (our Cinderella) and Dougray Scott as the prince, it blends romance, history, and personal growth—three elements I cherish in storytelling.
Strong, Independent Woman
Danielle is everything I admire in a heroine. She’s smart, resourceful, and fiercely independent. Can you say "meet cute by pelting him with apples"? Despite her challenging circumstances, she doesn’t sit around waiting to be rescued. Instead, she takes charge of her destiny, standing up for herself and those she loves.
Charismatic Man Who Falls Hard
Enter Prince Henry, played by Dougray Scott (who yes, I crushed on for many years after the movie). Henry is the embodiment of the kind of hero I adore--gorgeous, charismatic, commanding, and yet he falls first and fast, completely smitten by Danielle's wit, bravery, and kindness. His willingness to defy societal expectations and make sacrifices for Danielle is a beautiful portrayal of deep, unconditional love.
Intrigue
While Ever After is primarily a romance, it weaves in elements of suspense. From the wicked stepmother’s scheming to the climactic rescue, there’s a tension that propels the story forward. (and seriously, the navel-to-nose "rescue" is one of my favorites in any movie)
Historical Backdrop
The historical setting of Ever After isn't just a backdrop; it’s integral to the story. The Renaissance-inspired time period, with its vibrant culture and societal norms, adds depth and richness to the narrative. It truly highlights Danielle's unique character, her strength and loyalty. Plus, Leonardo da Vinci is a side character! Mind you, it's still a fantastical setting, close enough to reality we get to enjoy its timelessness, but far enough away to provide a satisfying love story.
Trust and Lies
One of the central themes in Ever After is trust. Danielle lies to Henry about her true identity for much of the movie, creating a significant obstacle in their relationship. Trust is the bedrock of any relationship, and it's my favorite theme to write about... although it can be a fine line. How much deception can the characters forgive?
Positive and Supportive Relationship
At the heart of Ever After is a love story built on mutual respect and support. Danielle and Henry inspire each other to grow and become better versions of themselves. This is exactly the kind of relationship dynamic I find most fulfilling in my fiction. Relationships that are positive, supportive, and devoid of toxicity, where both partners grow together, are the kind that make the best stories.
Ever After isn't just a movie I love; it’s a story that resonates deeply with the themes and tropes I adore and strive to bring to life in my own storytelling. I grew up reading fantasy and moved into contemporary mysteries as an adult, but rewatching "Ever After" and feeling all the swoons was another hint that I was a Romance fan all along. I just hadn't realized it!
So yeah, go watch it. Fall in love. And tell me what you thought (unless you already love it as much as I do, then just tell me that!!)