Seema Khaneja MD
Updated on: October 16, 2024 4:34 pm GMT
Excitement is building in the hearts of fans as Anne Hathaway confirms that “The Princess Diaries 3” is officially happening! Hathaway, known for her charming portrayal of Mia Thermopolis, shared a playful video on Instagram that sparked joy among millions.
Anne Hathaway’s Enthusiastic Reveal
In the video, Hathaway playfully references her past with a nod to both films in the franchise. She starts by mimicking her famous line, “A princess?! Shut up!” from the original 2001 film, while also bringing in a clever callback to her co-star Julie Andrews, who repeats the phrase in the sequel. The video concludes with Hathaway holding up three fingers and saying “Shut up” again, symbolizing the third installment.
Hathaway captioned her post, “Miracles happen! Back to Genovia. The fairy tale continues,” delighting fans of the series. Her genuine excitement is unmistakable, making it clear that she is just as thrilled about this new chapter.
Director and Vision for the Film
According to reports, Adele Lim will direct “The Princess Diaries 3.” Lim gained recognition for her work in “Joy Ride” and has also contributed as a writer for popular films like “Crazy Rich Asians” and “Raya and the Last Dragon.”
Lim expressed her eagerness in a statement, saying, “As a die-hard fan of the original Princess Diaries, I’m beyond excited to be a part of bringing the third iteration of this beloved franchise to life.” Her vision for the film focuses on the core themes of female empowerment, joy, and mentorship.
Background of the Franchise
“The Princess Diaries” debuted in 2001, introducing audiences to Mia Thermopolis, a teenager who discovers she is the heir to the throne of a small European kingdom called Genovia. The film won hearts and led to a sequel, “The Princess Diaries 2: Royal Engagement,” in 2004. The franchise was not only a commercial success but also played a significant role in shaping romantic comedies in its era.
Andrews starred as Queen Clarice Renaldi, Mia’s grandmother and monarch of Genovia. Their on-screen chemistry captivated viewers, creating a lasting legacy that’s now poised for a revival.
What’s Next for the Cast?
While Hathaway’s participation in the new film seems promising, it remains unclear if Andrews will return. In April, Hathaway hinted at the development of the third film in a conversation with V Magazine, stating, “We’re in a good place,” but stopped short of making firm announcements.
In addition to “The Princess Diaries 3,” Hathaway is also working on “The Devil Wears Prada 2.” This sequel features many original cast members, including Meryl Streep, Emily Blunt, and Stanley Tucci. According to IMDb, the plot will follow Miranda Priestly, played by Streep, as she faces challenges from former assistant Emily, portrayed by Blunt.
Fan Reactions and Anticipation
Fans around the world took to social media to express their enthusiasm. Many excitedly shared their favorite moments from the original films, which showcased the journey of an ordinary girl embracing her royal identity. Some popular reactions include:
- “I’ve waited years for this! So excited!”
- “Can’t believe we’re going back to Genovia!”
- “Anne and Julie are the perfect duo, please have them both!”
The strong attachment to the franchise demonstrates its lasting impact. Many fans feel nostalgic about their childhoods watching Mia’s journey from a clumsy teenager to a confident princess.
The Future of Disney Sequels
“The Princess Diaries 3” joins a growing list of Disney sequels that aim to rekindle beloved stories. A successful sequel can introduce the characters to a new generation while also providing closure for long-time fans. This approach has proven effective in recent productions like “Hocus Pocus 2” and “Toy Story 4.”
Upcoming films will not only attract nostalgic viewers but also new audiences, creating a bridge between generations. Hathaway’s return adds an element of trust that the film will honor the spirit of the originals.
Conclusion
With Adele Lim in charge and Anne Hathaway back as the star, “The Princess Diaries 3” is sure to be a fun new chapter in a beloved series. Fans are excited for more updates, and one thing is clear: the magic of Genovia will charm everyone again, showing that fairy tales really do go on.
