A Cinderella Story (2004)

The Cinderella fairytale has been adapted a million times over, with the latest Cinderella adaptation from Amazon sparking controversy over its girl boss agenda. Most stories keep some form of Cinderella’s backstory and the plot of falling for a “prince” after a ball, but what of the diversity? This article ranks some of the most popular Cinderella adaptations based on diverse representation. (Unfortunately, not every adaptation could make it onto this list since there are so many). Spoiler warning: They’re mostly white.

Incluvie score: 1.5/5

Movie score: 4.5/5

Ever After is possibly the best Cinderella adaptation. This story devotes more time to characterizing Danielle (Drew Barrymore) outside of the prince, and their love is something that blossoms over many meetings rather than after one night. Danielle is a perfect example of feminism done well. She helps the poor and is critical of the ignorant nobility and the social hierarchy they enforce. She is assertive and educates the prince on their society’s flaws. The prince then actually makes changes in the law. The pair have a wonderful back and forth, constantly challenging each other in arguably the most well-developed and dynamic relationship of these adaptations.