What Is Monte Carlo About?
The premise of Monte Carlo in 299 words, with nothing given away. The full story follows below.
In the golden glow of a long‑awaited graduation, two best friends leave the familiar plains of Texas for the romance of Paris, a city that promises art, adventure, and a taste of the world beyond their small town. Their journey is meant to be a celebration of newfound freedom, a chance to trade school‑yard worries for the sparkle of European cafés and iconic landmarks. The tone is breezy and upbeat, tinged with the nervous excitement that accompanies any first‑time escape, while the backdrop of France’s most celebrated streets hints at possibilities far larger than they ever imagined.
Grace Bennett, a driven high‑school senior juggling wait‑staff duties and dreams of travel, brings a blend of determination and vulnerability to the trip. By her side is Emma Perkins, whose spirited optimism and longing for her own adventure push both girls to step outside their comfort zones. Their dynamic is a lively mix of playful banter and heartfelt support, each encouraging the other to seize the moment while navigating the inevitable bumps of a foreign itinerary.
Joining them is Meg Kelly, Grace’s stepsister and reluctant chaperone, whose presence adds both tension and unexpected depth. Still mourning a recent loss, Meg wrestles with her own need to rediscover joy, making her interactions with the younger women a delicate dance of clashing personalities and hidden hopes. The trio’s contrasting outlooks create a lively, sometimes chaotic, chemistry that fuels the film’s humor and emotional resonance.
As the friends soak in the charm of Paris, a serendipitous case of mistaken identity nudges them toward an unexpected invitation to the dazzling realm of Monte Carlo. The promise of lavish parties, charismatic locals, and a world of opulence looms on the horizon, setting the stage for a light‑hearted, romantic adventure where self‑discovery and laughter go hand in hand.
What Happens in Monte Carlo?
The complete story of Monte Carlo, from the first scene to the last, in 519 words (about 2 minutes). Spoilers throughout. Names in the text link to 3 cast member pages.
Spoilers ahead
Grace Bennett, portrayed by Selena Gomez, is a high school student from Texas who juggles her waitressing job alongside her best friend Emma Perkins, played by Katie Cassidy. The duo has been saving for an exciting trip to Paris following their graduation, a dream that Grace has nurtured for four years. However, to ensure that they remain safe and connected, Grace’s stepfather, Robert, along with her mother, Pamela, decides to send along Grace’s stepsister, Meg Kelly, portrayed by Leighton Meester, as a chaperone. While this arrangement is intended to foster a bond between the sisters, Meg is less than thrilled about the surprise responsibility.
Grace holds resentment towards Meg, who frequently undermines her through public humiliation. This complex dynamic is intensified by their parents’ insistence that Meg needs this trip to rediscover joy after their mother’s passing, as Paris had been her favorite getaway. Emma, despite her boyfriend Owen’s heartfelt proposal, is determined to embrace this opportunity, longing for her first adventure beyond Texas.
Upon arriving in Paris, the trio quickly discovers that their whirlwind tour is overly packed, with visits to renowned sites like the Louvre limited to a mere 20 minutes. The challenges they face multiply as Emma’s fashionable yet cumbersome 4-inch heels become a source of discomfort. In stark contrast, the hotel they are assigned is rather basic, serving food that lacks authenticity. As Meg vocalizes her dissatisfaction, Grace remains resolute, refusing to let her sister dampen their spirits.
While navigating the city, Meg crosses paths with Riley, a charming Australian backpacker, stirring feelings of attraction. An unexpected turn of events occurs when the girls get stranded at the Eiffel Tower—due to their prolonged stay at the top, they miss their tour bus. Seeking shelter from the rain, they accidentally get mistaken for the glamorous British heiress, Cordelia Winthrop-Scott. This twist leads to a clever scheme where Grace poses as Cordelia for a night of luxury in the heiress’s suite.
As they navigate the consequences of this impersonation, including a private flight to Monte Carlo, the girls find themselves caught in a world of high society, where they encounter Theo Marchand, a handsome individual played by Pierre Boulanger, and soon learn of Cordelia’s reputation as a scandalous socialite. In their desperate attempts to maintain the ruse, Grace ends up at a charity ball where she dazzles everyone, including Cordelia’s aunt, Alicia, who is unaware of the deception.
Tensions arise when personal differences lead to a confrontation between Emma and Meg. Meanwhile, Riley’s compelling backstory and zest for life draws Meg in further, creating complicated feelings amongst the group. The implications of their masquerade escalate as both Cordelia and Owen arrive, leading to a hilarious yet suspenseful finale where Grace’s honesty at the charity auction prompts an unexpected turn of events.
In the end, new beginnings bloom for all: Meg embarks on a global adventure with Riley, Emma and Owen build a home together back in Texas, and a romantic connection forms between Grace and Theo at a charity event in Romania, proving that sometimes, the best journeys are the ones that lead you back to yourself.
Monte Carlo Timeline: Every Key Event in Order
14 key events in the order they happen, from “Grace and Emma's Ambitious Plan” to “Grace's Romance”. 7 events name a place, across 5 locations.
- 1
Grace and Emma's Ambitious Plan
Grace Bennett, a dedicated high school student from Texas, has been dreaming of a trip to Paris with her best friend Emma Perkins for four years. They both work tirelessly at their waitressing jobs to save up for this once-in-a-lifetime adventure after graduation.
Where:Texas
- 2
Unexpected Chaperone
As graduation approaches, Grace's stepfather, Robert, along with her mother, Pamela, decides to send her stepsister, Meg Kelly, as a chaperone. This decision is meant to foster a bond between the estranged sisters, but it only complicates matters since Meg is less than enthusiastic about the trip.
- 3
Tensions Rise
Grace harbors resentment towards Meg, who often humiliates her publicly. The dynamic is complicated further as their parents insist that this trip is essential for Meg to find joy again after the loss of their mother, reminding everyone of the emotional stakes involved.
- 4
Arrival in Paris
Upon arriving in Paris, the trio quickly realizes their whirlwind tour is packed with activities, leaving them with little time to truly enjoy famous sites like the Louvre. Each visit is limited to a mere 20 minutes, fraying their patience as they attempt to make the most of their dream trip.
Where:Paris
- 5
Fashion Misadventure
Emma's choice of fashionable yet impractical 4-inch heels begins to take a toll as they navigate the bustling city. The discomfort further intensifies when they arrive at their basic hotel, which fails to meet their expectations for an exciting Parisian experience.
Where:Paris
- 6
Stranded at the Eiffel Tower
Their adventure takes an unexpected turn when they become stranded at the Eiffel Tower after missing their tour bus. This mishap is compounded by rain, forcing them to seek shelter while facing the surprising realization that they're being mistaken for famed socialite, Cordelia Winthrop-Scott.
Where:Eiffel Tower, Paris
- 7
Living the High Life
Embracing this mix-up, Grace assumes the identity of Cordelia, leading to a night of unexpected luxury in a lavish suite. The girls are swept into a world of high society where they enjoy finer things, surfacing the thrill of living a life filled with glamour.
Where:Monte Carlo
- 8
The Charity Ball
As Grace navigates the consequences of impersonating Cordelia, she finds herself at a charity ball filled with high-profile guests. Her impressive presence captures everyone's attention, including that of Cordelia's aunt, Alicia, who remains oblivious to the ongoing deception.
- 9
Complicated Relationships
Tensions rise between Emma and Meg as their differing personal goals collide. Meanwhile, Meg's growing attraction to Riley, a charismatic backpacker they met during their escapades, challenges their friendship dynamics, leaving all three girls grappling with their feelings.
Where:Paris
- 10
Riley's Influence
Riley's captivating stories and zest for life draw Meg further into her own emotional turmoil. As their bond strengthens, Meg finds herself torn between savoring her adventure in Paris and the complexities of her evolving relationship with Emma.
Show the other 4 events of Monte Carlo Hide the last 4 events
- 11
The Unexpected Confrontation
As the layers of deception unravel, the presence of both Cordelia and Emma's boyfriend, Owen, leads to a humorous and chaotic confrontation. Each girl must confront the choices they've made as they grapple with the truth behind their escapade.
- 12
Grace's Moment of Truth
In a moment of sincerity at the charity auction, Grace chooses honesty over deception. This decision triggers a series of unexpected events that illuminate the true impact of their adventure and the connections they've formed during their time in Paris.
- 13
New Beginnings
The conclusion of their Parisian adventure marks transformative new beginnings for each character. Meg prepares for a journey with Riley, while Emma and Owen solidify their plans for a future back in Texas, leading to a sense of fulfillment amidst the chaos.
- 14
Grace's Romance
As the final threads of their trip come together, Grace finds an unexpected romantic connection with Theo at a charity event in Romania. This new relationship symbolizes the self-discovery and personal growth she experiences throughout their European adventure.
Where:Romania
Who Are the Main Characters in Monte Carlo?
3 characters, among them Grace Bennett, Meg Kelly and Emma Perkins: who each one is and the part they play in the story. Every profile links to the actor’s page.
-
Grace Bennett
Played by Selena Gomez
Grace is a determined and adventurous high school student who longs to experience life beyond her small-town existence. She displays resilience in the face of family challenges and embraces the unexpected opportunities that arise, leading her to discover love and self-awareness.
- 👩🎓 Student
- 🗺️ Explorer
- ❤️ Determined
-
Meg Kelly
Played by Leighton Meester
Meg is portrayed as a somewhat reluctant companion on the trip, harboring resentment towards her stepsister Grace. Initially focused on her own discontent, she evolves through her experiences in Paris and develops a romantic interest, ultimately seeking joy and adventure.
- 👩👧👧 Stepsister
- 😒 Resentful
- 🌍 Adventurer
- EP
Emma Perkins
Played by Katie Cassidy
Emma is Grace's loyal best friend who supports her dreams of adventure. Despite facing her own challenges in relationships, she remains steadfast and upbeat, embodying the spirit of exploration and the desire to embrace life beyond Texas.
- 👭 Best Friend
- 💖 Loyal
- 🌟 Optimistic
Where and When Is Monte Carlo Set?
Monte Carlo is set in Paris and Monte Carlo. Here is why the place matters to the story.
When
The story unfolds in a contemporary setting, reflecting modern-day experiences of young adults exploring their identities and relationships. The narrative captures the excitement and challenges faced by the characters during their adventurous journey.
Where
Paris, Monte Carlo
The movie takes place across iconic locations such as Paris, known for its rich culture, art, and history, and famous landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre. Monte Carlo shines in the film as a symbol of luxury and high society, attracting those who dream of glamorous lifestyles.
- 🇫🇷 France
- 🌍 Travel
What Are the Themes of Monte Carlo?
3 ideas the story keeps returning to, among them Adventure, Family Dynamics and Identity.
-
01
Adventure
The theme of adventure is central to the film, as the characters embark on an unexpected journey filled with exploration and self-discovery. Their experiences in Paris and Monte Carlo challenge their perceptions and bring new friendships and romantic entanglements into their lives.
-
02
Family Dynamics
Family relationships take center stage, particularly the tensions between Grace and her stepsister Meg. The struggle for approval and understanding highlights the complexities of blended families, emphasizing themes of acceptance and growth throughout their shared adventure.
-
03
Identity
The movie explores themes of identity as Grace navigates the consequences of impersonating a wealthy heiress. This masquerade leads to moments of self-realization and personal growth for all the characters, as they confront who they are beneath the facade they adopt.
What Kind of Film Is Monte Carlo?
Light in tone, with steady pacing and a straightforward story, going by the plot summary.
- Tone
- Light
- Pacing
- Steady
- Story
- Straightforward
- Intensity
- Low
- Ending
- Happy
A breezy and cheerful romantic comedy that whisks you away on a glamorous European adventure filled with lighthearted humor, charming romance, and a feel-good story of self-discovery.
- fun
- glamorous
- whimsical
- romantic
- lighthearted
- adventurous
- mistaken identity
- coming of age
- sisterhood
- self-discovery
Quiz
How well do you remember Monte Carlo? Test yourself on the story.
Where to Watch Monte Carlo
Rent or buy it from Amazon Video and Apple TV Store. US availability and prices from JustWatch.
Streaming availability in the US, powered by 
