[narrator] Long ago, and far away,
in a village high on a mountaintop,
something amazing was occurring.
At the very same moment, two identical baby girls were born.
One, a baby Princess. The King and Queen were overjoyed.
Princess Anneliese would have only the finest.
The second baby girl was named Erika.
Her parents loved her every bit as much as the King and Queen loved the Princess.
But they worried.
They were so poor.
How would they be able to care for their little daughter?
Many years passed.
The Princess learned her royal duties,
while Erika worked long and hard as a seamstress
for the spiteful Madame Carp.
With lives so different, it wasn't surprising that the Princess
and the Pauper never met.
But fate decreed they would.
[gentle music]
It all started at the Royal Mine.
When the miners informed the Queen the gold had run out.
[gasps]
The widowed Queen was shocked.
The Kingdom was now bankrupt.
How was she going to take care of her people?
If only she could call on her trusted advisor Preminger,
But he was away on a long journey.
She needed to do something quickly to save the Kingdom.
But what?
And then it struck her.
Nearby lived a rich young King who was seeking a wife.
[royal scheduler] Oh! We're late, late, late!
We have 20, maximum 22 minutes for your royal fitting.
And then it's move, move, move to your speech at the Historical Society.
After that, we have the rush. And I mean rush
to the Horticultural Society Tea. [royal scheduler pants]
Uh, and then there's your math lessons, uh, your geography lessons, your science...
♪ All my life I've always wanted To have one day just for me ♪
♪ Nothing to do and for once Nowhere I need to be ♪
♪ With no lessons, Lords, or lunches Or "to do" list in the way ♪
♪ No one to say when to eat Or read or leave or stay ♪
♪ That would be the day ♪
♪ All my life I've always wanted To have one day for myself ♪
♪ Not waking up with a pile Of work on every shelf ♪
♪ With no hems in need of pressing And no sleeves in disarray ♪
♪ No wedding gown With a thousand stitches to crochet ♪
♪ And no debt to pay ♪
[gasps] Madame Carp.
What do you think I'm running here? A cabaret?
I would've said a debtor's prison.
Keep laughing.
You'll be working for me for another 37 years.
But I've already paid off more than half.
But there's interest, isn't there?
Your parents should've thought of that before they borrowed so much.
-They did it to feed me! -Their mistake.
[door creaks, slams]
-♪ What would it be like to be... ♪ -♪ What would it be like to be... ♪
-♪ Free ♪ -♪ Free ♪
♪ Free to try crazy things ♪
♪ Free from endless IOU's ♪
♪ Free to fly ♪
♪ Free to sing ♪
♪ And marry whom I choose ♪
I'm so sorry, my darling,
but as you know, it is vital you marry King Dominick.
It is the only way to take care of our people.
I know. It's my duty.
Oh, and look!
Another engagement gift.
♪ You would think that I'm so lucky That I have so many things ♪
♪ I'm realizing that every present Comes with strings ♪
♪ Though I know I have so little My determination's strong ♪
♪ People will gather around The world to hear my song ♪
♪ Can I come along? ♪
♪ Now I fear I'll never be ♪
♪ Soon I will forever be ♪
-♪ Free! ♪ -♪ Free! ♪
[both] ♪ If I close my eyes I'd feel myself fly up ♪
♪ A thousand miles away ♪
♪ I could take flight But would it be right? ♪
♪ My conscious tells me stay ♪
♪ I'll remain forever royal ♪
♪ I'll repay my parent's debt ♪
[both] ♪ Duty means doing the things Your heart they well regret ♪
♪ But I'll never stop believing ♪
♪ She can never stop my schemes ♪
[both] ♪ There's more To living than gloves and gowns ♪
♪ And threads and seams ♪
♪ In my dreams ♪
♪ I'll be free! ♪
[tranquil music]
[clanging in distance]
[clanging continues]
[creaks]
[rattling and clanging]
[clanking]
[thudding]
Okay, what idiot put this in here?
Oh, that would be me.
Let us review, shall we?
We are stealing gold.
-Is this shiny? -No.
-[Nack] Valuable? -No.
-[Nack] Gonna make the boss happy? -No.
Focus, Nick. That's what you need.
That and a break.
[metal rattling]
-[thudding in distance] -[shushes]
[both grunt]
[thump in distance]
[approaching footsteps]
[quirky music]
Why, hello.
-Master Preminger, you're back... -[sighs]
...here early.
-[sighs] -[Nick] Hope you had a nice journey.
-[barking] -[both scream]
[Nack] Here you are, sir. The last of the gold from the Royal Mine.
There's nothing left.
Yeah, 'cause it's all yours! [chuckles]
[Preminger] Yes, it is...
very much mine.
Finally!
♪ I've been bowing, I've been scraping I've been lying like a rug ♪
♪ And for ten long years I've had to pay my dues ♪
♪ But today I am escaping For the last hole has been dug ♪
♪ It was waiting there So how could I refuse? ♪
♪ I'm returning home a hero Who's discovered mighty wealth ♪
♪ And what better husband Could a Princess choose? ♪
♪ I'm the suitor who will suit her Bring the Kingdom back to health ♪
♪ And I'll wear the crown For how could I refuse? ♪
♪ Raise every glass And rouse every cheer! ♪
♪ Praise that the reign Of Preminger is here! ♪
♪ Master in charge of all that I see ♪
♪ All hail me! ♪
♪ And by marrying the Princess I get all that I desire ♪
♪ Like a moat An ermine coat and palace views ♪
♪ Even though she treats me coldly It's a sign of inner fire ♪
♪ For inside she's thinking "How can I refuse?" ♪
Right, except for this one little problem, Boss.
Prince Boss to you!
Right, and the Queen decided to marry her off to the King of Dulcenia
-next week. -What?
Making a decision without me?
Who does she think she is?
Uh, the Queen?
-You simpering simpleton! -Well, she is the Queen!
She's got a crown, a scepter, and sits in her great big fancy chair...
-and those... -Silencio!
♪ No! I won't let go! ♪
♪ This peasant's son won't turn and run ♪
♪ Because the reckless royal Chose another beau! ♪
Aah!
♪ It's a... ♪
♪ Temporary setback! ♪
♪ It's a momentary loss ♪
♪ But conveniently my ego doesn't bruise ♪
♪ And the moment that I get back I will show them who's the boss ♪
♪ You can bet your bullion there'll be no "I do's" ♪
♪ Yes, suppose the girl goes missing So the king says, "Au revoir" ♪
♪ Then I find her, bring her back And make the news ♪
♪ Then the Queen will be so grateful That she'll pledge the heir to moi ♪
♪ And I'll humbly tell her "How can I refuse?" ♪
-Yeah. -♪ When our ceremony's over ♪
♪ I'll arise and take the throne ♪
♪ And that nitwit Anneliese Can kiss my shoe ♪
♪ For the Kingdom and the castle Will be mine and mine alone ♪
♪ If the crown should fit Then how can I refuse? ♪
♪ So get ♪
[all] ♪ Ready with the roses And stand by with the champagne ♪
♪ When you've got a brilliant plan You never lose ♪
♪ Yes, before the chapter closes I'll be as big as Charlemagne ♪
♪ It's a thankless job But how can I refuse? ♪
-♪ How can I refuse? ♪ -♪ How can he refuse? ♪
[laughing]
[birds chirping]
[soft music]
[purring]
[suspenseful music]
[thuds]
Enjoy it now, sister, 'cause it ain't gonna be yours much longer.
Oh, please, having delusions again, Midas?
Let's just say the throne's gonna belong to my master, Preminger.
And anything belonging to him, ergo and ipso facto, belongs to me.
-[growls] -[gasps]
-[barks] -[meows]
[barking continues]
-[barks] -[meows]
[Midas growls]
[barking continues]
-[screeching] -[thuds]
Ooh.
-You lose a tooth, Midas? -My tooth?
No, no, not my tooth! [cries]
Eh.
[sighs]
Ah, you better hope you got nine lives, Serafina.
[Midas barks] 'Cause you're gonna need 'em all!
[grandiose music]
I am Ambassador Bismark, here by invitation of the Queen.
King Dominick, you are quite sure about this?
I am.
Hmm.
[knocking on door]
-Uh, come in. -[door opens]
Julian, perfect timing.
I classified this as iron pyrite. Pretty, but not considered valuable.
-Commonly known as "fool's gold". -Well done, your Highness.
"Your Highness"? Why the sudden formality?
-It's just me. -[Julian] The Queen sent me.
Apparently, the Ambassador has arrived with a gift for you.
The Ambassador? He's here already?
On behalf of, uh, King Dominick...
I present this engagement gift to you.
[Queen] Oh! Thank you, Ambassador.
Princess Anneliese will be quite pleased.
May I enquire, Your Excellency, if you've set a date for the wedding?
Will a week from today do?
Ah! Next week?
[Preminger] Uh...
Ah! A most wise and thoughtful decision, Your Majesty.
Excellent.
I will... uh, send for King Dominick,
so that he may meet his new bride.
[purring]
[serene music]
Hmm. So happy.
-Free to do whatever they want. -[kids giggling]
What do you think King Dominick will be like?
Oh, I'm sure he'll be... suitable.
Oh, I know it's the right thing to marry him, but sometimes I wish...
Well...
Apparently, he's a lover of music.
He plays three different instruments.
The dulcimer, the trumpet, and the piano.
Anneliese...
you're going to need your cape.
I am? Why?
[indistinct chatter]
[Julian] There's nothing like some fresh air and a change of scenery.
I wish it were that simple.
-[door closes] -[Anneliese] Come on, Serafina.
[meows]
[creaking]
Ah, it feels so good to be outside the castle walls.
Nobody knows who I am.
So, which one was your house?
More of a room, really. We couldn't afford a house.
-Oh, I didn't mean... -I know.
Third floor on the left. Did all my studies there.
[indistinct chatter]
[sniffs]
A perfect example of rosa centifolia.
My favorite. But, you knew that.
Mmm, that smells delicious.
I'll be right back.
-[indistinct chatter] -[pounding in distance]
[somber music]
[Erika] ♪ Like a bird that flies In the morning light ♪
♪ Or a butterfly in the spring ♪
♪ When your spirit rides On the wings of hope ♪
♪ You'll find your wings ♪
Let's go listen, Serafina.
-[meows] -[crowd clapping]
♪ For you're always free to begin again ♪
♪ And you're always free to believe ♪
♪ When you find the place That your heart belongs... ♪
Caroling?
Madame Carp!
[growls]
Wait, I earned that!
And you owe me.
Did you really think you could make a living as a singer?
Get back to work, girl, or there'll be trouble.
[can clattering]
-[Anneliese] What a beautiful song. -Thanks.
My Mom taught it... to me.
Whoa.
We could be sisters.
-What's your name? -What's your name?
-You first. -Please, call me Anneliese.
Anneliese? You have the same name as the Princess.
[chuckles] Well...
Oh.
I'm Erika, Your Highness.
Aren't you supposed to be inside the castle?
I'm savoring a first and last taste of freedom
before getting married next week...
to a total stranger.
At least you're not an indentured servant.
Indentured servant?
♪ If I'd like to have my breakfast hot Madame Carp will make me pay ♪
♪ And I have to fetch the eggs myself And the barn's a mile away ♪
♪ It's cold and wet and still I get An omlette on my plate ♪
♪ But in my head I'm back in bed Snuggled up and sleeping late ♪
-Really? -Really, but it's all right.
I mean, I'm used to it. And you?
Well...
Well?
♪ If I want some eggs I ring the bell And the maid comes running in ♪
♪ And she serves them on a silver tray And she brings a cookie tin ♪
♪ And while I eat, she rubs my feet And strolling minstrels play ♪
♪ But I'd rather be in my library Reading science books all day ♪
-♪ I'm just like you ♪ -You are?
♪ You're just like me ♪
♪ There's somewhere else we'd rather be ♪
♪ Somewhere that's ours Somewhere that dreams come true ♪
♪ Yes, I am a girl like you ♪
♪ You'd never think that it was so ♪
♪ But now I've met you and I know ♪
♪ It's plain as day Sure as the sky is blue ♪
♪ That I am a girl like you ♪
So, you're a singer?
No, I work at Madame Carp's penitentiary.
-Uh, I mean Dress Emporium. -I love Madame Carp's Dresses!
I made the one you're wearing.
You made this? It's my favorite.
-The design looks so complicated. -Oh, but it isn't, really...
♪ First I choose a fabric from the rack And I pin the pattern down ♪
♪ And I stitch it in the front and back And it turns into a gown. ♪
♪ I wear the gown, without my crown And dance around my room ♪
[both] ♪ And imagine life without The strife of an unfamiliar groom ♪
But I'd never let my Mother know.
I wouldn't want to disappoint her.
I completely understand.
-♪ I'm just like you ♪ -♪ I think that's true ♪
-♪ You're just like me ♪ -♪ Yes, I can see ♪
[both] ♪ We take responsibility ♪
-♪ We carry through ♪ -♪ We carry through ♪
[both] ♪ Do what we need to do ♪
♪ Yes, I am a girl like you ♪
-♪ I'm just like you ♪ -♪ I'm just like you ♪
-♪ You're just like me ♪ -♪ You're just like me ♪
[both] ♪ It's something anyone can see ♪
-♪ A heart that beats ♪ -♪ A heart that beats ♪
[both] ♪ A voice that speaks the truth ♪
Yes, I am a girl like you.
It's amazing!
Except for our hair.
We could be twins.
[both giggle]
[giggling]
What about this birthmark?
[Anneliese] Hm, no, I guess not.
Here, Your Highness.
[mugs clattering]
[both giggle]
It's... uncanny.
[chuckles]
[growls]
-[gasps] -[barks]
-[meows] -[growls]
Serafina!
[barks]
Wolfie!
-[barking] -[meowing]
[thrilling music]
[meows]
-[meows] -[barks]
[thumps]
-[barking continues] -[meowing continues]
[suspenseful music]
[barks]
[Serafina panting]
[grunts]
[gasps]
[whimpers]
[yelps, grunts]
-Look who's a long way from the palace. -[gasps]
Don't get any ideas, Midas.
I don't get these nails filed for nothing.
I'll take my chances.
[growls]
[snarls]
[grunts] I'm warning you, leave her alone!
Heh! Or you'll do what? Spit a hairball at me?
[both barking]
-[action music] -[barking]
[groans]
[grunts]
[Midas yelps]
Quite a big bark you have there, Rover!
Uh, it's, uh, Wolfie. Not Rover. [barks]
Well, thank you, Wolfie, not Rover.
[sniffs, exhales deeply]
My name's Serafina.
Uh, I haven't seen you around here before. [clears throat]
I don't think we run in the same circles, but...
perhaps we can change that.
-[Anneliese] Oh! There you are. -[Erika] There you are.
[meows]
-[barks] -Did I just hear your cat bark?
-He, uh, has a style all his own. -[Wolfie barks]
I'm sorry, Your Highness, we should be getting back.
One day you must sing for us at the palace.
Really?
I'll send someone for you.
I'll be at Madame Carp's.
Goodbye, Erika! I won't forget.
Goodbye!
[Erika] Come on, Wolfie.
Wolfie?
[laughs]
Cat got your tongue?
Come on, boy.
[tranquil music]
[squeaking in distance]
[squeaking continues]
I may be dainty, but I'm still a feline!
[meows]
[grunts]
[grumbles]
[squeaking]
[gasps, shrieks]
-[Serafina meows] -[Nick laughs]
We did it! Let's go.
Come here, Nick.
Yeah? [grunts]
Our job is to capture the Princess...
not her cat!
Right.
What'd we get the cat for?
Allow me to demonstrate, dimwit.
[Serafina meows]
-[meowing continues] -[gasps]
Serafina?
-Serafina, where are you? -[Serafina meows]
Serafina, come here, girl. Come here, kitty!
[Serafina meows]
Serafina?
[Serafina meows]
[gasps] Ah!
[crickets chirping]
[yelps]
[groans]
-[door closes] -Well! That certainly wasn't called for.
Oh, are you okay?
No, I am not okay!
My mistress is inside with two hooligans, and I've got dirt, dirt on my bum!
Who are you?
Uh, Herve.
Nice to meet you, Herve. I'm Serafina.
I command you to unlock this door!
Yes, Your Highness! [laughs]
"Yes, Your Highness!" [imitates Nick's laugh]
We're in charge here, dumbwit.
Right. I knew that.
I can't believe they won't let me in there.
My Princess needs me.
Oh, I'm sure the boss will let her out.
-What boss? -[Herve] Uh...
-[horse galloping in distance] -That boss!
[gasps]
[horse snorts]
Signed, sealed, and delivered, Master Preminger!
Does she know I'm behind this?
-Not a clue. -[Preminger] Good!
Keep her here until the wedding to King Dominick is canceled.
-[gasps] -[Preminger] Then we'll see
who the Princess marries.
[laughs]
Oh, he is nasty! Just like his dog.
Think you could get me up to the roof?
Oh. I do not know.
[Herve] It is pretty high up.
[Sarafina] You can do this! Trust me, Herve.
Just count to three.
[snorts]
Eh, ooh...
Whoa...
[Sarafina] Thank you, Herve.
A girl's got to do what a girl's got to do!
[Serafina yells]
-[thuds] -Oh!
[gasps] Serafina?
[sighs] I am simply not going to look at myself.
[birds chirping]
[Queen] Anneliese.
Anneliese, darling?
Are you here?
Where could she be? She wasn't at breakfast.
Is that something on her desk, Your Majesty?
Oh, a letter to me.
[gasps]
-It says she's run away... -[gasps]
...so she won't have to marry King Dominick!
Oh!
Well, this is dreadful!
We have to find her. She could be hurt!
Well, I'll send out search parties at once, Your Majesty.
I'm sure she couldn't have gotten far.
Oh.
Preminger, what would I do without you?
This is an outrage! The most grievous insult!
I am sure we'll find her.
I insist we cancel the wedding if the Princess does not return
by the end of the day.
It doesn't add up. Why would she run away?
Why don't you see for yourself.
Lilac?
-Where did you find this? -On the Princess's desk.
Perhaps I can help you look for her.
Why don't you stick to your books, schoolboy.
Wouldn't that be fun? [laughs]
Lilac? She never scented her stationary with lilac.
It was always rose.
[lively music]
Welcome, sir. [Madame Carp chuckles]
Are you looking for a gown for a special lady?
I can assure you, you will find only the finest at Madame Carp's.
If I may, I would like to speak to one of your seamstresses, Miss Erika.
[Erika] I don't believe it! The Princess sent for me!
-Oh, actually... -I'm going to sing at the Castle... me!
-Uh, I came because... -But, I'm not ready.
-I have to rehearse. -If I could just...
I better change my dress.
Oh, what am I talking about? I only have one dress!
Wait, isn't that why you're here?
I'm sorry, but no.
The Princess is missing,
and I need you to help me find her.
Me? Well, what can I do?
Pretend to be Princess Anneliese.
[gasps]
-Are you out of your mind? -Just listen.
I suspect Preminger, the Queen's Advisor,
has taken the Princess off somewhere so the Royal Wedding will be canceled.
That's awful.
If you pretend to be the Princess, just for a short while,
I can trick Preminger into revealing where he's hiding her.
[Erika] Pretend to be royalty?
I could get thrown in prison, or worse!
As can I, but...
She's in real trouble, isn't she?
A girl like me...
Count me in.
[soft music]
-[birds chirping] -[horse galloping]
[soft music continues]
[Erika] Would you look at the size of this place?
The likeness is remarkable.
Except for my hair.
I've thought of that.
[Wolfie barks]
[chuckles] Wolfie!
Hmm.
[Wolfie yelps]
Nice!
Blond in a box.
[gentle music]
Um, Julian, we're missing one teeny tiny detail.
[blows raspberry]
I don't know a thing about being a princess.
Leave that to me.
It's all here in the Princess's Book of Etiquette.
Let's begin.
No nagging, bragging, sweating, fretting,
slipping, tripping, slurping, burping, twittering, or frittering allowed.
Stay present, stay pleasant, stay proud.
♪ To be a princess Is to know which spoon to use ♪
♪ To be a princess Is a thousand pairs of shoes ♪
♪ To maintain a regal gait Leave the parsley on your plate ♪
♪ And be charming but detached And yet amused ♪
♪ To be a princess Is to never be confused ♪
♪ Do a plié and never fall Don't ever stray from protocol ♪
♪ All through the day There's just one way you must behave ♪
♪ Do keep a grip and never crack Stiff upper lip and arch the back ♪
♪ Bend from above And always wear your gloves, and wave ♪
♪ Shoulders back and tummy in and ♪
♪ Pinky out and lift the chin and ♪
♪ Slowly turn the head from side to side ♪
♪ I see now ♪
♪ Breathing gently, stepping lightly Smile brightly, nod politely ♪
♪ Never show a thing you feel inside ♪
Glide.
♪ To be a princess Is to always look your best ♪
♪ To be a princess Is to never get to rest ♪
♪ Sit for a portrait, never squirm ♪
♪ Sleep on a mattress extra firm ♪
♪ Speak and be clever Never at a loss for words ♪
♪ Curtsy to every count and lord ♪
♪ Learn how to play the harpsichord ♪
♪ Sing lullabies And always harmonize in thirds ♪
[both] ♪ Thirds, thirds ♪
♪ And... she has beautiful eyes ♪
♪ Your spirits rise When she walks in the room ♪
I see.
♪ Doors close and the chemistry grows ♪
♪ She's like a rose That's forever in bloom ♪
-♪ Do a plié and don't ♪ -♪Ever ever ever fall ♪
-♪ Never show dismay ♪ -♪ And be there when people call ♪
♪ Be prepared Whatever royal life will bring ♪
-♪ Do keep a grip and don't... ♪ -♪ Ever ever ever crack ♪
-♪ Take a dainty sip ♪ -♪ Never ever turn your back ♪
♪ There's a time and place And way for everything ♪
♪ To be a princess Is to never make your bed ♪
♪ To be a princess is to always ♪
♪ Use your head ♪
-Whoa! -[crown clatters]
[trumpet playing]
[Ambassador] It is official, then.
Due to the disappearance of the Princess,
the wedding to King Dominick is canceled.
Your Highness, wait!
May I, uh, present, Princess Anneliese.
Darling?
[gasps]
[bright music]
-Whoa-oh! -[thuds]
Phew.
[Queen] Anneliese?
Oh, you're back!
[Queen] Where have you been?
I am sorry. I should not have run away.
Promise me you'll never do it again.
I still think we should cancel the wedding.
[coughs]
[clears throat]
Yes, yes, but... but an agreement is an agreement.
The wedding is back on!
King Dominick is... is, is due tomorrow!
[Queen] Wonderful.
Uh, tomorrow?
And then, only a few short days before the wedding.
Oh...
Has anyone seen my spectacles?
If you'll excuse me, I must be off to see to the...
Ack! Arrangements.
[growls]
[shrieks]
-[cries] -Who let this mangey beast in here?
[growls]
Everything all right, Preminger?
It soon will be.
[chuckles]
[sniffs]
[Julian] What have you got there, boy?
[sniffs]
Hmm, from a silver fir tree.
What's Preminger doing in the Western Forest?
Julian, wait! I want to hear all about how you found Anneliese!
Uh... uh... of course, Your Majesty.
Hey! I happen to know you've got a five of hearts.
What do you mean you know?
-[Nick] I saw it! -[Nack] You mean you cheated!
Yeah.
I mean, no!
[Anneliese] Help, help!
Please, help me!
-Yes, Your Highness? -What is it?
Hurry!
[stammers, screams]
[Nick] Ghost!
Get it! Quick!
You're older, you get it!
You're closer, you get it!
-[humming] -[screams]
[Nick] It's got me!
I can feel its furry hand!
Help!
-No, please! -[Anneliese] Well done, Serafina.
[Nick] Oh, please don't take me!
[crying]
[grunts]
Go, go!
[playful music]
[tense music]
[horse neighs]
Let me in. You idiots!
Your Bossness, everything is fine.
Fine, fine, fine, fine. Just fine! See you soon.
[nervous laugh]
How did she escape?
Who?
Who? The Princess!
You moron! Idiot! [groans]
[Nack] Uh, the Princess is here.
Sleeping! [nervous laugh]
Aren't you sleeping, Princess?
[in high pitched voice] Yes. I'm sleeping.
Now, Boss, you don't want to wake her up, do you?
She's a Royal...
She's a Royal, all right, a royal pain in the behind!
[in high pitched voice] Who interrupts my slipper?
Slumber, you bonehead!
Slumber, right!
[in normal voice] I knew that.
Get out of that bed!
[screams]
[Preminger] I can figure out how the Princess escaped you fools.
But why didn't she tell the Queen she'd been captured?
-[Nick and Nack grunt] -[thudding]
Hmm, something's odd.
I must solve this princess puzzle if I'm to be King.
King? Preminger?
-[wood clanks] -Ah!
Looking for something, Julian?
How can you be King?
-[thuds] -[muffled scream]
You're the tutor. You're supposed to have all the answers.
[Julian groans]
[tense music]
[carriage approaching]
-Come here, Serafina. -[meows]
[guard] Who goes there?
Princess Anneliese.
Ha! If you're the Princess, I'm the King.
-But I am the Princess. -Really?
Then how come I just saw the Princess eating dinner with the Queen?
What Princess?
Now, move along before I lost my temper.
You are speaking to Princess Anneliese!
-Let me through! -[guard] I said move along!
-Now! -[gasps]
[dramatic music]
We'll find help in here.
-[dog barking] -[Serafina meows]
[laughter]
What are you doing here?
I beg your pardon!
[clicks tongue] Not another word!
You're coming with me!
[gasps]
[door opens]
Not done yet?
If you weren't such a lazy cow,
those dresses would be finished by now.
How dare you speak to her that way!
How dare I?
[stutters] How dare I?
Just who do you think you are?
Princess Anneliese.
[laughs] That's a hoot!
You've got to change a lot more than your hair to look like the Princess.
Why, me and the Princess are close, personal friends.
Oh, really?
Now, shut up and get back to work.
I'm warning you, if you're going to treat your seamstresses this way,
we'll take our Royal business elsewhere.
You're warning me?
We'll see your attitude change by morning.
You're not coming out until every dress is finished, Erika!
-[door slams] -Erika?
[doorknob clanks]
-Locked in again! -[Bertie] Erika?
That is you, isn't it?
[clatters]
"Made exclusively by Madame Carp."
If Wolfie can slip and in and out,
I'm sure your pretty little Serafina can do it too.
-It's up to you now, Serafina. -[meows]
Take this to the castle.
When somebody reads the label, it'll lead them here.
[suspenseful music]
[mumbles]
[creaking]
-[dog howling in distance] -[shrieks]
Oh, good heaven!
-This is going to be a long night. -[dogs barking]
[birds chirping]
I thought I was dreaming,
but I'm not.
[meows]
-[knocking on door] -[barks]
Shh! Wolfie, we've gotta, you know, act like we live here.
We can't give ourselves away.
Be a Princess. Be a Princess.
[clears throat]
Come in.
[door opens]
Did I hear a dog, Your Majesty?
Should I call the Royal Dogcatcher?
Ah, no, no. Dog? [chuckles]
Everything is fine.
Your breakfast, Your Highness.
Really? In bed?
As always.
Oh, yes. Of course. Thank you.
Look at all this food! Want some?
Oh, I... I couldn't, Your Highness.
But there's enough to feed an army!
Come on, take some.
I, uh, thank you, um, m'lady.
I'll draw your bath.
Would you like bubbles, mineral salts, or lavender oil?
[laughs] Everything!
You're going to just tell her that you disguised yourself as a page?
[stammers]
Are you sure that's wise, King Dominick?
No, I'm not sure. But I have to be honest.
I think she'll understand.
I didn't want to marry a stranger any more than she did.
[sighing]
I may never come out.
Meh...
What's wrong, Wolfie? Are you sick?
Something in your throat?
Meh...
Wait a minute.
Are you trying to... meow?
[barks]
[chuckles] Bella.
♪ I can see it when you're feeling low You can't hide that from me ♪
♪ You're no status quo calico So why keep trying to be? ♪
♪ 'Cause you're more than that You're a doggish cat ♪
♪ I wish you could see the you I see ♪
No.
♪ I say, if you bark celebrate it ♪
♪ Make your mark, serenade it ♪
♪ Noah's ark shoulda had a cat like you ♪
♪ And if what you are is a strange you ♪
♪ Doesn't mean you should change you ♪
♪ Only means You should change your point of view ♪
Princess Anneliese?
♪ Hey, feline, you fetch just fine ♪
♪ To thine ownself be true ♪
♪ Your bow wow's the cat's meow ♪
♪ It's how I know you're you ♪
♪ You don't need the bows or tiara ♪
♪ Bid your woes sayonara ♪
♪ Trust your nose 'Cause it knows the way to go ♪
♪ When you chase your tail You're enchanting ♪
♪ Spirits sail when you're panting ♪
♪ When you wail, you're a rover, Romeo ♪
♪ There is not one hair of you ♪
♪ That I would rearrange ♪
♪ I love you the way you are ♪
♪ And that will never change ♪
♪ That will never ♪
♪ Change ♪
-[barks] -That's my boy!
[panting]
There, this one's finished!
Uh, sort of...
Please, Your Highness, you don't have to do this.
I can't let you do it all by yourself.
[soft music]
[yawns]
How am I going to do this? Everyone will know I'm a fake.
They'll throw me in the dungeon in two seconds flat.
Oh, Julian, where are you? Why aren't you here?
[door opens]
Your most beautiful, Highness. Ah!
[barks]
What's this stupid cat doing here?
-He belongs to me. -Oh! He's yours, is he?
Well, a thousand apologies, My Lady.
-Such a canine... feline. -[barks]
What happened to the other one?
-Uh... she's around here somewhere. -I see.
So rare... that you're apart.
The Queen has sent me to escort you to meet the King.
Uh...
Thank you.
I appreciate your understanding, Your Majesty.
Likewise, King Dominick.
I apologize for my daughter's little delay in the wedding plans.
But it's all sorted out now.
May I announce, Princess Anneliese.
Oh, hello, darling. Come, come.
I want to introduce you to King Dominick.
He has something he wants to tell you.
Ah, where are my spectacles?
I'm honored.
Uh...
[clears throat]
The honor's mine, King Dominick.
Please, just call me Dominick.
Oh, call me Eri... I mean, Anneliese.
Princess Anneliese. [soft chuckle]
That's my name.
[Wolfie barks]
[barking continues]
[laughs] I hope his bark is bigger than his bite.
He likes you.
I'm sure you're wondering why I disguised myself as a page.
I wanted to meet you without all this... this ceremony.
To get to know the real you.
Uh, the real me...
King Dominick, would you do us the honor of playing the piano?
I know you love music.
You do?
I will, if the Princess agrees to sing with me.
Sing with you.
Uh, no, no, I couldn't.
Something tells me you have a wonderful voice.
[gentle piano music playing]
Sing, darling.
♪ Once a lass met a lad ♪
♪ You're a gentle one, said she ♪
♪ In my heart I'd be glad ♪
♪ If you loved me for me ♪
♪ You say your love is true ♪
♪ And I hope that it will be ♪
♪ I'd be sure if I knew ♪
♪ That you loved me for me ♪
[Erika] ♪ Could I be The one you're seeking? ♪
♪ Will I be the one you choose? ♪
♪ Can you tell my heart is speaking? ♪
♪ My eyes will give you clues ♪
[Dominick] ♪ What you see may be deceiving ♪
♪ Truth lies underneath the skin ♪
[Erika] ♪ Hope will blossom by believing ♪
[both] ♪ The heart that lies within ♪
[Dominick] ♪ I'll be yours ♪
♪ Together ♪
♪ We shall always be as one ♪
♪ If you love me for me ♪
-[Erika] ♪ Who can say where we'll go? ♪ -[Dominick] ♪ I'll be yours ♪
-♪ Together we shall always ♪ -[Erika] ♪ Who can promise what will be? ♪
-♪ But I'll stay by your side ♪ -[Dominick] ♪ Be as one ♪
[both] ♪ If you love me for me ♪
♪ If you love me for me ♪
[birds chirping]
Breathtaking.
[Erika sighs]
The prettiest sunset I've ever seen.
There's something about you...
Your eyes, no pretenses.
I like that.
Until tomorrow, Your Highness.
[dramatic music]
"Honest"? "No pretenses"?
Oh, Wolfie, Julian and the Princess are still missing.
And I think I'm falling in love with the King.
[Serafina grunts]
[grunting continues]
-[sighs] -[Preminger] Hmm.
Why, it's our missing little feline.
-[barks] -[meows]
But with an attitude. Oh, yes!
I never liked cats.
Hmm. The Princess's ring. How odd.
"Madame Carp's Dress Shop"?
Maybe the answer to our mystery.
[horse galloping]
[horse snorts]
[Herve snorts]
[suspenseful music]
[faint meow]
[Serafina] Oh!
Thank you, Herve.
[gasps] My Princess!
[clanking]
Preminger, you found my ring!
-[Serafina meows] -You good girl.
Princess...
[hisses]
Serafina, what's gotten into you?
Come quickly, Princess. You can tell me everything on the way to the castle.
-But first let me... -No, no. No time, Your Highness.
[meows]
[dogs barking]
Princess?
-Hyah! Go! -[norse neighs]
[Anneliese] What are we doing here?
[Preminger] Taking a little side trip, Princess.
You were behind this!
Very clever planting a double to fool even me.
But not quite clever enough.
Checkmate!
I win.
[Anneliese] Serafina!
[Serafina meows]
[yells, grunts]
Nice to see you again, Your Highness. Watch your step.
I don't understand, Preminger. Why would you do this?
To be King. [grunts]
[Anneliese] And how would you get to be King?
Still underestimating me? Isn't that just like a Royal.
-He was going to marry you. -What?
Now, he's got a new bride in mind.
Your Mother is a very handsome woman.
-[gasps] -[laughs]
Julian!
Anneliese!
How sad they'll be when they discover you died in a tragic accident.
[Julian] They'll never give up looking for the Princess!
Oh, I think they will.
When I show them this!
[laughs]
Oh, that's funny.
[door lock clangs]
[Julian grunting]
[groans] No good.
We have to stop him.
[crashing]
Put a little muscle behind it!
[crashing continues]
[tense music]
[crashing]
[Anneliese] What's that?
[rumbling]
[Preminger] Move it!
[tragic music]
[Queen] Everything seems to be in order.
Thank you, Ambassador.
The kingdoms will be officially joined after the wedding tomorrow.
Are you ready, darling?
Ready... [chuckles]
Well... [clears throat]
Uh...
For my bride to be.
[Erika] Whoa!
[door opens]
-[Preminger] Grab her! -[gasps]
She's an imposter!
Preminger, what are you doing?
[Erika grunts] Get your hands off me!
Release the Princess!
She's a fake! A common pauper!
Are you telling me I don't know my own daughter?
I only just discovered the truth myself, Your Majesty.
Have you not wondered why we haven't seen Julian lately?
He's conspiring with this... this imposter!
Together they took the Princess and hid her in the Royal Mine, so...
so she could take her place,
marry King Dominick and take over the Kingdom!
And what proof do you have of this ridiculous story?
Once I discovered this treachery, I tried to rescue the Princess
but it was too late.
They sabotaged the mine, collapsing it.
I'm afraid this is all my workers found in the rubble.
No! [sobs]
It cannot be.
Check her shoulder! There's no royal birthmark.
I assure you.
[Queen gasps]
[Queen] It's true.
[gasps]
-[Midas barks] -[grunts]
[snarling]
I don't believe it.
I can explain.
Throw her in the dungeon!
No, wait!
I... I'm not the Princess, but I never hurt her or anybody else!
Unbelievable!
It... It's an outrage!
I... I just wanted to save the Princess from him!
The dungeon! [snickers]
[somber music]
[sobs]
My daughter. My poor daughter...
What do they take us for? Fools?
Trying to marry you off to a mere pauper!
-It doesn't make sense. -I should say not.
The sooner we leave, the happier I'll be.
♪ Do a plié and never fall ♪
♪ Don't ever stray from protocol ♪
♪ All through the day there's just one way You must behave ♪
♪ Do keep a grip and never crack ♪
♪ Stiff upper lip... ♪
[sobs]
♪ Stiff upper lip... ♪
[sobbing]
[door closes]
[approaching footsteps]
Ah! Just who I wanted to see.
Preminger, what is it?
So many problems. I'm here to help.
-You can't bring my daughter back. -Too true.
But I can provide the answer to saving your Kingdom.
A little business venture of mine was very successful.
You could say I "struck gold".
I'm as wealthy as King Dominick.
♪ Well, your good luck has departed And your people soon will starve ♪
♪ Au revoir to your foie gras And cheese fondues. ♪
♪ But because I'm so good-hearted Half my fortune I will carve ♪
♪ I feel your pain So how could I refuse? ♪
♪ But to give me some incentive There's just one thing I require ♪
♪ And it's something That you never even use ♪
♪ And it's nothing that inventive Just the one thing I desire ♪
♪ This simple crown Yes, how could I refuse? ♪
♪ Oh, don't let your spirits falter I've a ring box in my hand ♪
♪ And I booked a band So grab your dancing shoes ♪
♪ And come with me to the altar See the Kingdom as you plan ♪
♪ Yes, marry me for how can you refuse? ♪
♪ How can you refuse? ♪
[laughs]
[birds chirping]
[moans]
[carriage approaching]
Are you Wolfie? Serafina's friend?
-I like to think so. -She needs help.
-and so does the Princess. -What?
Show me, quick!
[grunts]
[shrieks]
Sorry, Serafina!
[Julian grunts]
-[clanks] -[Julian grunts]
[grunting continues]
It's hopeless. I'm sorry, Anneliese.
Do you know why I didn't want to marry the King?
-You weren't ready to get married. -No, I was in love with somebody else.
My best friend. The man who's taught me so much.
But I'm not a King. I can't give you what he can.
I think you're like this.
A rock?
[chuckles]
Unassuming on the outside, and a treasure within.
[Julian] We'll get out of here somehow.
I promise.
[horse galloping]
[Wolfie] Don't tell me she's in there.
All right, I will not tell you.
[sniffing]
Oh, I'm getting... [sniffing]
Oh, yeah, I'm getting... [sniffing]
Uh, dizzy?
No. A scent.
[sniffing]
There's another way in.
[indistinct chatter]
[Preminger] Look at you...
hmm, looking at me.
Lovely.
[sighs]
[Julian grunts]
[grunting continues]
[Anneliese gasps]
[gasps]
[sniffing]
Hey! Hey, hey, hey! Down here!
[growling]
[Wolfie growling]
[rumbles]
-Whaddya make of that? -Oh, uh, you are an excellent digger.
Thank you, but I meant look!
I'll bet I can get to Serafina and the Princess this way.
[Eika] ♪ La la la, la la la ♪
♪ La la la, la la la la ♪
-♪ La la la, la la la ♪ -[yawns]
♪ La la la la la la ♪
♪ La la la, la la la la ♪
You are going down there?
A cat always lands on his feet, even one that barks.
[barks]
[yelps]
[barks]
[gasps]
Erika's cat?
An old mine shaft.
Hello? Anybody up there?
[water sloshing]
Water...
Here, help me!
[Anneliese grunts]
[Julian grunts]
[Julian groans]
[Anneliese] Beautiful.
♪ La la la la ♪
♪ La la ♪
♪ La la la ♪
♪ La ♪
[groans]
♪ La... ♪
[foreboding music]
[moans]
[tense music]
[snorts]
[water running]
[tense music continues]
No, let me go!
Thought you could escape, did you? I'll lock her up.
-I'm to take her to the castle. -But...
The Queen's orders.
Oh, well, right then.
[indistinct chatter]
-Looking good, Sir Nick. -Feeling good, Sir Nack.
Smile, my dear. You're about to become my Queen.
Only to save my people.
Your fortune will help them all.
[chortles]
-This way. Hey! -[grunts]
-I guess I deserved that. -[gasps]
Dominick? I need to explain...
I don't believe you're the person Preminger says you are.
You do love disguises, don't you?
Come, we need to hurry!
Do you, Preminger, take this woman to be your bride?
Yes. How could I refuse?
And do you, My Queen, take this man to be your husband?
[Queen] I...
I... uh, I...
Uh...
-I d... -[Anneliese] Wait!
-[crowd exclaiming] -Wait!
[both gasp]
-Stop the wedding, Mother! -[Queen gasps]
-Anneliese? -But, she's dead, Your Highness!
The imposter must have escaped.
No, Preminger.
Wha...
[gasps] It is you!
Oh, my darling.
-[man 1] It's the Princess! She's back! -[man 2] Thank goodness.
[murmuring]
It's the Princess! She's alive!
But where were you?
Oh.
-I thought... -What he wanted you to think!
[gasps]
Guards! Take him!
-[guard] Somebody stop him! -[neighs]
Go! Go!
[Erika] He can't get away.
He won't get away.
[both neigh]
[both exclaim]
[screams, grunts]
Nice to see you again.
-[grunts] -[thuds]
Going somewhere?
-Not so fast, puffy! -[gasps]
Humph. Now, who has nowhere to go?
Yeah, nowhere to go, but through you! [barks]
[whines]
[gasps] My tooth!
Oh, my beautiful tooth!
[cries]
[thrilling music]
Faster, you old nag!
I've seen snails faster!
[Preminger grunts] Move!
[neighs]
Huh? What are you doing?
[screaming]
Turn around!
[Preminger] Oh!
Stop, you stupid beast!
I said stop!
-[neighs] -[yelps]
[grunts]
-[groans] -[crowd cheering]
-I like your style, Herve. -So do I.
[crowd cheering and applauding]
[groans]
[crowd cheering continues]
Preminger played me for a fool. I'm sorry, my darling Anneliese.
When I think what might have happened...
But it didn't. Thanks to Erika and the man I love...
Julian.
Julian?
He's kind, intelligent, and my best friend.
Mother, it's Julian I want to marry.
I want you to be happy.
But it is our duty to take care of our people first.
I can do that. I found something very interesting in the mine.
[uplifting music]
-[Dominick] I can't convince you to stay? -Dominick, I...
All my life I've dreamed of being free. Now my debt's been paid.
-Thanks to Anneliese. -Where will you go?
Everywhere.
I want to sing, see the world!
Then, I hope you'll take this with you.
I couldn't.
[Dominick] It was meant for you.
-No promises? -I'll take my chances.
[soft music]
[narrator] Princess Anneliese was right about the mine.
She discovered it was filled with geodes.
Under her direction,
the beautiful crystals created a new industry.
The Kingdom was saved.
As for Madame Carp, without the word from the castle, she went out of business.
[crowd cheering]
After months of traveling, Erika realized there was one place
she wanted to sing more than anywhere else.
Sometimes being free means choosing not to go,
but to stay.
[gentle music]
[Erika] ♪ And you're always free To begin again ♪
♪ And you're always free to believe ♪
♪ When you find the place That your heart belongs ♪
♪ You'll never leave ♪
[Anneliese] ♪ You and I will always be ♪
♪ Celebrating life together ♪
♪ I know I have found A friend forever more ♪
♪ Love is like a melody ♪
♪ One that I will always treasure ♪
♪ Courage is the key That opens every door ♪
[both] ♪ Though you may not know Where your gifts may lead ♪
♪ And it may not show at the start ♪
♪ When you live your dreams You'll find destiny ♪
♪ Is written ♪
♪ In your heart ♪
[narrator] And, of course,
Wolfie and Serafina lived happily ever after.
Along with their many, many, many kittens.
[barking]
♪ Though you may not know Where your gifts may lead ♪
♪ And it may not show at the start ♪
♪ When you live your dream You'll find destiny ♪
♪ Is written ♪
♪ In your...♪
♪ Heart ♪
[crew] Standing cat is ready. Serafina stunt test: take one.
And... action!
Oh, dear.
[crew] Quiet on the set, please.
And... action!
Uh, not quite sure this is a good idea.
[crew] Take 37.
And... action!
Okay, let's bring in Serafina.
Uh, can you get my agent on the phone?
[exhales deeply]
My, you're attractive.
♪ You're no status quo calico So why keep trying to be ♪
♪ 'Cause you're more than that You're a doggish... ♪
-[splashes] -[whimpers]
-Wolfie! -[crew] Cut!
Okay, can I get a hairdryer over here, please?
Aren't you pleasant to the eye
you, reflection you!
[crew] Mine cart, take one.
And... action!
Ah!
-[Nack groans] -[crew] Cut!
Uh, Nick, um, you're supposed to jump into the cart.
Right. I knew that!
Is that really me? In there? Looking at me?
Lucky me!
-[birds chirping] -[tranquil music]
[birds chirping]
Breathtaking!
-[Erika sighs] -[phone ringing]
[gasping] Sorry!
[Erika laughing]
-[phone beeps] -How romantic, right?
Very handsome, very fit.
Very irresistible.
-♪ Do a plié and don't ♪ -♪ Ever ever ever fool ♪
-♪ Never show dismay ♪ -[laughing]
["I'm On My Way" playing]
♪ When I wonder where I am ♪
♪ When I wonder why I take these chances ♪
♪ I try to breathe ♪
♪ I say to me ♪
♪ Believe ♪
♪ And whatever comes, it's okay ♪
♪ 'Cause I'm on my way To somewhere better ♪
♪ I'm further every day ♪
♪ I'm on my way ♪
♪ I know it might take until forever ♪
♪ But everything could change today ♪
♪ So I'm on my way ♪
♪ To find that place ♪
♪ People say that I'm naive ♪
♪ 'Cause I'm trusting And my heart is open ♪
♪ But I won't hide ♪
♪ I'm here to find ♪
♪ Who I am ♪
♪ And whatever comes is what's right ♪
♪ 'Cause I'm on my way To somewhere better ♪
♪ I'm further every day ♪
♪ I'm on my way ♪
♪ I know it might take until forever ♪
♪ But everything could change today ♪
♪ So I'm on my way ♪
♪ To find that place ♪
♪ I'll keep dreamin' til I get there ♪
♪ Oh, oh, yeah ♪
♪ I'll be free ♪
♪ So goodbye to yesterday ♪
♪ I'm giving what it takes ♪
♪ 'Cause I'm on my way To somewhere, somewhere better ♪
-♪ I'm on my way ♪ -♪ I'm on my way ♪
♪ It could take forever ♪
♪ It could change today ♪
♪ So I'm on my way ♪
♪ My way ♪
♪ To find that place ♪
♪ Yeah ♪
♪ I'm on my way ♪
♪ Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah ♪
♪ I'm on my way ♪
♪ Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah ♪
♪ I'm on my way ♪