Common Sense Media Review
By Renee Schonfeld
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Enjoyable modern-day fairy tale has music, romance, humor.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 9+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
A Cinderella Story: Christmas Wish
What's the Story?
A CINDERELLA STORY: CHRISTMAS WISH tells the charming tale of a young singer-songwriter just months before she is to receive her inheritance. Kat Decker's (Laura Marano) beloved dad died years ago, and it's only four months until her 18th birthday. Making the most of her dependence upon them, her wicked stepmother (Johanna Newmarch) and tormenting stepsisters never let up. Working as an elf at Santaland with Isla (Isabella Gomez), her very best friend, is the only respite from Kat's chores and insults at home. When she meets Nic (Gregg Sulkin), the company's new Santa Claus, there's an immediate attraction. Because they're both in costume, neither remembers that they've met before under awkward circumstances. An invitation to a billionaire's Christmas Eve ball sets the serendipitous events in motion: A ballgown, a subterfuge, more evil plotting by Kat's "steps," and lots of singing and dancing help the young couple to their happy ending.
Is It Any Good?
The wicked stepfamily is over-the-top nasty, and the story relies on incredible coincidences, but the accomplished cast and sweet romance will definitely appeal to young fans of happily-ever-after. Contemporary Christmas movies and fairy tales seem to go hand in hand, and they're often by-the-numbers entries hoping to capitalize on the spirit of the holiday. A Cinderella Story: Christmas Wish is better than that. The song-and-dance numbers may not be sophisticated or highly original, but they're fun and well-performed. The likable Laura Marano and Gregg Sulkin have a nice chemistry, and Isabella Gomez makes a wonderful BFF. The writing is polished, the directing is accomplished, and there's lots of rooting interest for the "prince" and "princess" of this pleasing tale.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the lasting pleasures of fairy tales. What's so appealing about them? How does A Cinderella Story: Christmas Wish fit the description of the genre?
Modern versions of fairy tales usually have female heroes who are more assertive and confident than the early ones. How does that reflect changing cultural attitudes about girls and women in today's world?
Be creative. Write (or draw) a Cinderella that's entirely your own. Who is your Cinderella? What does she do? How does she meet her prince? Tell her story.
Movie Details
- On DVD or streaming : October 24, 2019
- Cast : Laura Marano , Gregg Sulkin , Isabella Gomez
- Director : Michelle Johnston
- Inclusion Information : Female Movie Actor(s) , Latino Movie Actor(s)
- Studio : Warner Bros.
- Genre : Romance
- Topics : Fantasy ( Fairy Tales ) , Friendship
- Run time : 85 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- MPAA explanation : rude and suggestive material
- Last updated : September 30, 2025
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