A rom-com at its finest! Quality plot, laughs, and love...and the important message that accepting yourself is the true key to happiness :'3

This movie is the cutest thing ever!

I decided to give this a shot as part of my mission to see all things Reese Witherspoon. If you are thinking about watching it for that reason, don't. She is probably on screen for 10 minutes max. That doesnt mean it's not worth viewing though. I initially thought the movie was going to approach her problem in the traditional movie sense like _Powder_ or even _Lucas_ where all the kids mercilessly tease our subject. But here the parents(read mom) have sequestered Penelope for over 20 years. It kind of made me think which way is crueler? Kids will be kids but all Penelope wanted was to be herself as we learn here and when she does, well, watch and enjoy. Great supporting cast.

One of my favorite romance movies, with a splash of fantasy. _Penelope_ is just another love story about a girl trying to find her prince charming, but with a twist, and that's where the fantasy element comes in. The plot itself will seem very familiar to anyone who knows the Beauty and the Beast story. The beautiful, fairytale direction within will be a huge draw to any fans of Tim Burton - and the first time I watched this, I was shocked that he did not make it. Certainly doesn't hurt that the titular role is played by Christina Ricci - from _Sleepy Hollow_ (1999) - along with her mother, played by Catherine O'Hara - from _Beetlejuice_ (1988). Very sweet, often funny, vibrant, romantic, and a reminder to love yourself. Highly recommended to fans of quirky romance.

It turns out Penelope was an angel surrounded by monsters, and I’m so happy she got away from her parents and her old life. I only wish we could have gotten to see a little more build-up to her relationship with Johnny/Max, so I could have understood a bit better where the depth of their love came from. It would have given the story a bit more oomph and emotional maturity for me, especially since Penelope’s own character arc definitely did have that in spades. We really got to see her gain self-confidence and self-acceptance from up-close, which made it feel much more authentic and meaningful.