The story begins with Daphne Reynolds (played by Amanda Bynes), a spirited and independent teenager living in New York City with her single mother, Libby (played by Kelly Preston). Daphne has always felt a void in her life due to not knowing her father, so she decides to travel to London to find him.
Upon arriving in London, Daphne discovers that her father is Lord Henry Dashwood (played by Colin Firth), a wealthy British aristocrat running for political office. However, Henry is initially unaware of Daphne’s existence, as Libby had left him before she was born.
Determined to reconnect with her father, Daphne crashes a garden party at Henry’s estate, much to the chagrin of his snobbish fiancée, Glynnis (played by Anna Chancellor), and her socialite daughter, Clarissa (played by Christina Cole). Despite their initial skepticism, Daphne’s outgoing personality and zest for life win over Henry’s staff and catch the attention of Henry himself.
As Daphne navigates the unfamiliar world of British high society, she faces challenges and obstacles along the way. She clashes with Glynnis and Clarissa, who view her as an outsider and a threat to their social standing, and struggles to fit in with the rigid expectations of Henry’s world.
Despite the challenges, Daphne forms a close bond with Henry’s staff, including his butler, Alistair Payne (played by Jonathan Pryce), and his son, Ian (played by Oliver James). With their help, she begins to uncover the truth about her parents’ past and the reasons behind their separation.
In the climax of the film, Daphne’s presence causes tension between Henry and Glynnis, leading to a confrontation that forces Henry to confront his true feelings for Daphne and the sacrifices he has made for the sake of his reputation and social status.
In the end, Henry realizes that family is more important than societal expectations and embraces Daphne as his daughter. Daphne also learns valuable lessons about love, identity, and the importance of being true to oneself, as she navigates the complexities of her newfound relationship with her father and finds acceptance and love in unexpected places.
“What a Girl Wants” is a heartwarming and charming romantic comedy that celebrates the bonds of family and the journey of self-discovery. With its endearing characters, witty humor, and feel-good storyline, the movie offers a delightful and uplifting experience for audiences of all ages.