What a Girl Wants 2003

In a heartfelt exploration of identity and belonging, seventeen-year-old Daphne Reynolds finds herself at a pivotal moment in her life. Raised above a bustling restaurant in Chinatown, Manhattan, her life revolves around her mother, Libby, a spirited wedding singer who has always candidly shared the intricacies of Daphne’s family history. Libby’s unconventional romance with Briton Henry Dashwood in Morocco led to an arranged marriage that, unfortunately, was marred by deception and secrecy. The truth about their past was uncovered due to the manipulative schemes of Alistair Payne, a devious aristocrat, resulting in Libby ultimately leaving Henry’s world behind.

As Daphne embarks on her own journey of self-discovery, her curiosity about her father’s enigmatic past sparks a desire to connect with him in London, believing it will help her untangle the complexities of her family’s story. Meanwhile, Henry, having renounced his noble title, is striving to forge a career in politics and aims for a seat in the House of Commons, with aspirations to become prime minister. However, pressure from his advisors, especially the domineering Alistair, urges him to marry Glynnis—a snobbish daughter of Alistair—to reinforce their social standing.

Once in London, Daphne crosses paths with Ian Wallace, a kindred spirit who shares her enthusiasm for music and is diligently pursuing his dreams. As their friendship blossoms into a budding romance, it acts as a catalyst for Daphne’s quest for self-acceptance. Henry’s introduction to Daphne sends shockwaves through his aristocratic milieu, particularly affecting Glynnis and her daughter Clarissa, who are determined to undermine Daphne’s influence to safeguard their elite status.

In her fight for acceptance in Henry’s world, Daphne must also face off against Armistead Stewart, a wealthy young man with affections for Clarissa and a longstanding rivalry with Ian. Defiantly, Daphne refuses to shy away, confronting the elitist attitudes that threaten to stifle her, thereby carving her distinct path toward the truth about her family and her place in a society defined by privilege and class.

While charming British high society, including the esteemed Princess Charlotte, Daphne’s lively and tomboyish personality inadvertently complicates Henry’s political ambitions, causing havoc in his campaign due to her unpredictable antics. Faced with the challenges of representation, Henry urges Daphne to adopt a more polished facade that befits her noble heritage, which surprisingly boosts his polling numbers. However, disheartened by the changes in Daphne’s character, Ian feels pushed aside when she chooses the Queen’s garden party over their time together.

At her debutante ball, hosted by none other than her father with a special appearance by Libby, Daphne overhears Alistair discussing how he “took care” of her mother, which sets off a chain of events. Glynnis then imprisons Daphne to manipulate the father-daughter dance with Henry, cunningly forcing him to partner with Clarissa instead. Fortunately, Libby rescues Daphne just in time, but as they witness Henry dancing with Clarissa, Daphne resolves to shed her artificial persona and plans to return to the United States. In a dramatic twist, Henry withdraws from the election once he learns of Alistair’s betrayal and reveals the truth of Libby’s past.

In a touching reunion as a caterer at a wedding where Libby performs, Henry confesses his love for Daphne just as she has always wished. Overwhelmed with emotion, she finally experiences the father-daughter dance she yearned for. However, before she can fully bask in the moment, Ian sweeps her onto the dance floor, as Henry offers an apology to Libby, leading the couple to dance together.

The film concludes with a heartwarming epilogue: Glynnis has married a wealthy yet dull nobleman, while Clarissa finds herself wed to Armistead, notorious for his less-than-honorable reputation. Alistair has found a new niche as a tour bus guide in London. Finally, free from past entanglements, Henry and Libby reaffirm their commitment during a Bedouin ceremony, as Daphne looks forward to entering the University of Oxford, still closely linked to Ian. The story wraps up with a delightful family picnic in their backyard, symbolizing a newfound unity between Daphne, Henry, Libby, and Ian.