Well, Chad Michael Murray in 'Cinderella Story' is really central to the whole modern - day Cinderella narrative. He's the male lead who catches the eye of the female protagonist. His acting and on - screen presence help to create that dreamy, romantic feel of the movie. It's his character that the story kind of revolves around in terms of the love story aspect, just like in the traditional Cinderella tales where the prince is a crucial part.