Based on the classic folk tale by French author Charles Perrault, Cinderella follows the story of a young woman whose life of hardships is turned upside down. Though there have been thousands of adaptations for both the stage and big screen in several different languages, the foundation of the tale is often left untouched. A common version depicts Cinderella living a ragged life under the control of her stepmother and stepsisters, who are jealous of Cinderella's beauty and grace. When Cinderella's cruel family prevents her from attending the royal ball of Prince Charming, her fairy godmother comes to her aid and transforms her rags into a beautiful gown. Cinderella shows up to the ball and immediately catches the eye of the Prince, but she is forced to abruptly leave the party at midnight, when she returns to her true form, before the Prince can catch her name. A tale of hope and overcoming obstacles, Cinderella is an enduring narrative that has proven its lasting power through centuries of storytelling.