1. Emphasize Ella's Agency:
* Early Agency: Instead of just reacting to the curse, Ella should exhibit early signs of independent thought and action. Maybe she tries to challenge the curse herself, using her wit and resourcefulness, even if it's ultimately futile. This highlights her strength and resilience.
* Active Problem-Solving: Ella should play a more active role in finding solutions. She wouldn't just rely on Prince Charmont or others to solve her problems. She'd engage in strategic thinking, using her intelligence to navigate difficult situations and find loopholes in her curse.
2. Deepen Ella's Relationships:
* Complex Family Dynamics: Ella's relationship with her stepfamily could be more nuanced, exploring both the resentment and occasional moments of genuine connection.
* Friendship with the Prince: Instead of just a romantic interest, Charmont could become a true friend who supports Ella's growth and respects her independence. This would create a healthy dynamic, free from the traditional damsel-in-distress narrative.
* Diverse Supporting Cast: The supporting characters (like the fairy godmother and Ella's friends) could be more diverse in personality and background, offering Ella different perspectives and support networks.
3. Explore the Magic System:
* The Curse's Origin: The story could delve deeper into the origins of the curse, explaining why it was placed on Ella and what its true purpose might be. This would add intrigue and complexity to the plot.
* Moral Ambiguity: The fairy godmother could be portrayed as less whimsical and more morally ambiguous, perhaps with hidden motivations for the curse. This would create a sense of uncertainty and complexity within the magical world.
4. Focus on Character Development:
* Ella's Self-Discovery: The story could explore Ella's journey of self-discovery beyond just breaking the curse. It could focus on her growth in self-esteem, her evolving sense of identity, and her understanding of her own strength.
* Breaking Stereotypes: Ella's defiance of societal expectations would be emphasized more prominently. She could challenge the traditional roles of women and demonstrate her strength and intellect, showing that she doesn't need a prince to save her.
By making these changes, "Ella Enchanted" could become a more empowering and complex story, celebrating female agency, genuine relationships, and a more nuanced understanding of magic and its impact on individual lives.