The film follows the story of Anya (voiced by Meg Ryan), an amnesiac orphan who dreams of discovering her true identity and reuniting with her family. She is accompanied by Dimitri (voiced by John Cusack), a con artist who convinces her that she is the long-lost Princess Anastasia Romanov, the daughter of Tsar Nicholas II, who was believed to have been killed in the Russian Revolution.
Anya and Dimitri travel to Paris, where they plan to present Anya to Anastasia’s grandmother, the Dowager Empress Marie (voiced by Angela Lansbury), in exchange for a reward. Along the way, they are pursued by Rasputin (voiced by Christopher Lloyd), a vengeful sorcerer who seeks to prevent Anya from claiming her rightful place as heir to the Russian throne.
As Anya and Dimitri journey across Europe, they encounter various obstacles and challenges, including Rasputin’s sinister minions and the suspicions of Marie’s advisor, Vladimir (voiced by Kelsey Grammer). Despite these setbacks, Anya remains determined to uncover the truth about her past and fulfill her destiny as Anastasia.
In a series of dramatic and emotional moments, Anya begins to regain her memories and confront the trauma of her past. She learns that she is indeed the real Anastasia and that Rasputin’s curse was responsible for her memory loss. With the help of Dimitri, Vladimir, and other newfound friends, Anya must confront Rasputin and his dark magic in order to reclaim her identity and secure her rightful place as the heir to the Russian throne.
In the climactic showdown, Anya confronts Rasputin in a final battle of wills, using her courage and determination to overcome his evil powers. With the support of her friends and the love of her family, Anya emerges victorious and finally reunites with her grandmother, Marie.
In the end, Anya embraces her destiny as Anastasia and begins a new chapter in her life, surrounded by the love and support of those who care about her. The film concludes with a sense of hope and renewal, as Anya embarks on a journey of self-discovery and embraces her true identity as a princess.
“Anastasia” is praised for its stunning animation, memorable characters, and enchanting music, including the Academy Award-winning song “Once Upon a December.” It remains a beloved classic of the animated genre, captivating audiences of all ages with its timeless tale of love, loss, and redemption.