Fairy tales get a modern makeover in A Cinderella Story (2004), a teen rom-com where glass slippers are swapped for text messages and pumpkin carriages for fast cars. Samantha Montgomery (Hilary Duff), stuck under the thumb of her wicked stepmother (Jennifer Coolidge), finds hope in her secret online romance — only to discover her mystery crush is none other than Austin Ames (Chad Michael Murray), the school’s golden boy.

Hilary Duff shines as Sam, blending vulnerability and determination as a girl who dares to dream beyond her stepmother’s cruelty. Chad Michael Murray brings charm as Austin, balancing high school heartthrob appeal with a longing for authenticity. Jennifer Coolidge steals scenes with over-the-top hilarity, playing the delightfully wicked Fiona with outrageous flair.

Set against the backdrop of a high school Halloween dance, mistaken identities, sparkling gowns, and a lost cellphone take the place of fairy-tale tropes, giving the story a playful, Y2K-era twist. Beneath the comedy and romance lies a timeless message: believe in yourself, no matter who tries to hold you back.

Sweet, funny, and unapologetically nostalgic, A Cinderella Story proves that happily ever after can happen anywhere — even in the cafeteria.