Review: The Princess Diaries 3 (2025)
After nearly two decades of waiting, The Princess Diaries 3 finally arrives, bringing back the magic, charm, and heartfelt humor that defined the beloved series. Directed with a balance of nostalgia and modern flair, the film reunites audiences with Mia Thermopolis (Anne Hathaway), now a mature queen facing the pressures of ruling Genovia while trying to balance her personal happiness. The story cleverly picks up years after the events of the second film, addressing Mia’s growth as both a woman and a monarch, and it gives long-time fans exactly what they’ve been hoping for—a satisfying continuation filled with warmth, wit, and just the right amount of fairy-tale sparkle.
One of the film’s strongest aspects lies in its tone. Unlike many sequels that struggle to find relevance, The Princess Diaries 3 embraces its legacy while speaking to today’s audience. Themes of female empowerment, leadership under pressure, and the importance of staying true to one’s values run throughout the narrative. Hathaway slips effortlessly back into Mia’s shoes, blending her signature awkward charm with the poise of a seasoned queen. Fans will especially appreciate how the film never loses sight of the humor—Mia still stumbles, literally and figuratively, reminding us that even queens are human.
The supporting cast elevates the experience even further. Julie Andrews, reprising her iconic role as Queen Clarisse, delivers a performance that is both regal and tender, once again serving as Mia’s guiding light. New characters, including a fiery Genovian diplomat and a charming love interest whose motives are not entirely clear, add fresh conflict and intrigue. The interplay between old and new faces creates a dynamic energy, ensuring that the film appeals to both loyal fans and newcomers. There are also clever nods to the earlier films—certain lines, comedic gags, and even a few surprising cameos—that feel like rewards for those who grew up with the franchise.
Visually, the film is a feast for the eyes. Genovia has never looked more enchanting, with sweeping palace shots, grand ball sequences, and modern royal fashion that balances elegance with contemporary trends. The cinematography leans into the dreamlike quality of the story without straying too far into fantasy, keeping the world grounded and relatable. Combined with a witty script that mixes sharp one-liners with heartfelt confessions, the film manages to be both laugh-out-loud funny and unexpectedly emotional. By the final act, audiences will likely find themselves tearing up—not just for Mia’s journey, but for the nostalgia of revisiting a world that defined so many childhoods.
Ultimately, The Princess Diaries 3 is more than just a sequel—it’s a love letter to fans who have been waiting for this chapter. It celebrates growth, resilience, and the idea that no matter how much time passes, we can still hold onto the dreams of our youth. With its mix of charm, humor, and heartfelt storytelling, the film secures its place as one of the most delightful and meaningful returns to a beloved franchise in recent memory. For fans of Mia Thermopolis and the magical kingdom of Genovia, this long-awaited third installment proves the wait was worth it.
