Due to an ancient family curse, Penelope Wilhern is born with the snout of a pig. For years, her high-society parents have kept her hidden from the world. Aware that the curse can only be broken by “one of her own kind” falling in love with her, they bring in scores of eligible, wealthy men to try and woo Penelope.
Unfortunately, every time they see her, they run screaming. When she meets Max, she begins to form a real connection with him. Unfortunately, he tells her he cannot marry her or break her curse. Heartbroken, Penelope finds a way to escape into the real world for the first time and begins to discover just who she really is.
This was my first viewing of Penelope, and I found it to be utterly charming. Christina Ricci portrays Penelope with a grounded mix of strength and vulnerability, making her more than just a typical fairy-tale heroine. She is funny, curious, and deeply relatable beneath the prosthetics. As Max, James McAvoy compliments her performance, adding a rough sincerity that makes their connection feel genuine, despite the fantastical premise. Together, they had sweet, delightful chemistry, and while you want Penelope to find her independence, you also really want her to find a happily ever after with Max, as well.
Catherine O’Hara once again delivers a hilarious performance as Penelope’s image-obsessed mother, while Reese Witherspoon appears in a supporting role as a scooter-riding punk outsider who helps Penelope discover the joys of the real world. The rest of the supporting cast is just as incredible, including Peter Dinklage as a tabloid journalist looking to expose Penelope, Richard E. Grant as Penelope’s father, and Nick Frost as… well, I won’t spoil it.
I loved that the film maintains a whimsical tone without being overly cutesy. It’s supported by a clever script that keeps its emotional core in focus. The film’s greatest strength lies in its message. Unlike many love stories, Penelope is not about being saved by someone else; it’s about choosing yourself, completely and unapologetically.
This narrative turns a familiar fairy tale concept upside down. Although some pacing issues slow down the middle, the payoff is genuinely moving. I also loved that the story seems to take place in a city outside the realm of this world. It feels like a mixture of London and New York City, but it’s never mentioned, which adds to the fantasy.
Penelope is a sweet yet never cloying romantic fable in which the true love story unfolds between a young woman and her own reflection. It’s an underrated gem of a movie, and I absolutely recommend it to any lovers of the genre.
Watched: 07/14/2025
Notable Song: Hoppípolla by Sigur Rós
