First Love

Set in the 1930s, "First Love" is a charming and lighthearted reimagining of the classic fairy tale, Cinderella. The movie begins with the graduation of Connie Harding, a bright and cheerful young girl, from boarding school. With no parents to turn to, Connie is left to navigate the complexities of her new reality, alone and without guidance. After her graduation, Connie is sent to live with her wealthy aunt, Dora, and uncle, John, in their opulent estate. Despite their outward appearances as kind and generous hosts, Connie quickly realizes that she is not exactly welcomed into the family with open arms. This is especially evident in her snobbish cousin, Barbara, who is spoiled by her parents and looks down on Connie as an inferior and unwanted relative. As the news spreads that the entire family has been invited to a grand social ball, excitement runs high among the female relatives, particularly Barbara, who is eager to solidify her relationship with Ted Drake, the star basketball player at her uncle's alma mater. However, when she learns that Connie is in attendance, Barbara makes it clear that she will not be overshadowed by her cousin and sees to it that Connie is forced to stay home, thereby eliminating any potential competition. In desperation, Connie turns to her uncle, John, who, with a mix of paternal understanding and mischief, agrees to play the role of her fairy godfather. With the help of his resourceful butler, Mr. Jenkins, Connie manages to transform from an unassuming and unglamorous high school graduate into a stunning and alluring young woman, fit for the grand ball. With his own flair for storytelling, John creates a backstory for Connie, which involves a fictional fiancé from abroad who is suddenly called back home due to a family emergency, thus allowing Connie to attend the ball without Barbara being any wiser. Meanwhile, a magical dress, which has been altered to fit Connie, is ready, complete with sparkling jewels that shine like the night sky. With a newfound sense of confidence and glamour, Connie is whisked away to the ball by her uncle's chauffeur, where she leaves Barbara in awe, who is initially oblivious to the cunning plan her uncle has orchestrated. At the ball, Connie captures the attention of everyone present, and particularly that of Ted Drake, Barbara's boyfriend, who is immediately smitten by Connie's charm and poise. Ted spends most of the evening in Connie's company, dancing and laughing with her, while leaving Barbara in a state of unease and confusion as to how her boyfriend could possibly enjoy the company of someone she considers inferior. As the night wears on, Connie and Ted grow closer, sharing stories and getting to know each other. Despite the attempts by Barbara and her family to keep them apart, Connie and Ted find themselves becoming inseparable. However, as the ball comes to a close, Connie is faced with the reality of returning to her humble life as a poor relative, while Ted must decide whether to pursue a relationship with the enchanting young woman he has fallen for or to stick with his socialite girlfriend, Barbara. As for her uncle, he must reconcile his role as a guardian and a fairy godfather, making sure that his ward, Connie, finds happiness in her own right. "First Love" ends on a hopeful note, as Connie and Ted share a romantic dance, with their feelings for each other still unspoken, yet evident.