Family Films about Girls from the Countryside

Description: Mia Thermopolis, a shy high school student from San Francisco, discovers she is the princess of a small European country. This film captures her transformation from a provincial girl to a royal figure, highlighting themes of self-discovery and family ties.

Fact: Julie Andrews, who plays Queen Clarisse, was nominated for a Golden Globe for her role. The film was based on the novel by Meg Cabot.

Description: Four best friends from different backgrounds share a magical pair of jeans that fits each of them perfectly, symbolizing their bond as they navigate their summer apart.

Fact: The film was followed by a sequel due to its popularity. It was adapted from Ann Brashares' novel.

Description: Lily Owens, a girl from South Carolina, escapes her abusive father to find solace with three beekeeping sisters. This film delves into themes of race, family, and self-discovery.

Fact: The film is based on the novel by Sue Monk Kidd. It features a strong ensemble cast including Queen Latifah and Dakota Fanning.

Description: Olive, a young girl from a quirky family, dreams of becoming a beauty queen. The film follows her family's road trip to a beauty pageant, showcasing their struggles and the bond that keeps them together.

Fact: The film won two Academy Awards, including Best Original Screenplay. The cast had to learn how to play the ukulele for the film's iconic scene.

Description: While not from a rural background, Andrea Sachs, a small-town girl, navigates the high-fashion world of New York City, learning about ambition and self-worth.

Fact: Meryl Streep's performance as Miranda Priestly earned her a Golden Globe nomination. The film was based on Lauren Weisberger's novel.

Description: Although not about a girl, this film features a family from a small town who takes in a homeless teenager, Michael Oher, who goes on to become an NFL player. It's about family, support, and overcoming adversity.

Fact: Sandra Bullock won an Academy Award for Best Actress for her role. The film is based on a true story.

Description: Skeeter, a young aspiring writer from Mississippi, writes a book about the lives of African-American maids, highlighting their stories and the racial tensions of the 1960s.

Fact: The film was nominated for four Academy Awards, including Best Picture. It was adapted from Kathryn Stockett's novel.

Description: Hazel Grace Lancaster, a teenager with terminal cancer, finds love and meaning in life through her relationship with Augustus Waters. Though not strictly rural, it captures the essence of small-town life and personal growth.

Fact: The film was a major commercial success, grossing over $300 million worldwide. It was based on John Green's bestselling novel.

Description: Nell is about a young woman raised in isolation in the North Carolina mountains, who must integrate into society after her mother's death. It explores themes of identity and belonging.

Fact: Jodie Foster learned a unique language for her role as Nell. The film was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Actress.

Description: Landon Carter, a popular high school student, falls for Jamie Sullivan, a minister's daughter from a small town, in this story of love, faith, and personal transformation.

Fact: The film was based on Nicholas Sparks' novel. Mandy Moore's performance was critically acclaimed.