13 Going on 30

On a sweltering summer evening in 1987, Jenna Rink feels marginalized in her teenage life, desperate to gain popularity among the elite group known as the Six Chicks. With determination, she devises a plan to invite them to her 13th birthday party in exchange for helping them with their schoolwork.

During the preparations for Jenna’s birthday, her best friend Matty Flamhaff reveals his unreciprocated love for her by giving her a specially crafted dollhouse sprinkled with 'magic wishing dust'. This gift is meant to convey his affection, but Jenna is unaware of the magical potential it holds.

Jenna’s birthday party arrives, and the Six Chicks, including her crush Chris Grandy, do show up. However, they betray Jenna's trust, leaving her heartbroken when they abandon her to focus on their homework instead of celebrating with her.

Devastated by the betrayal, Jenna locks herself away, wishing upon the stars to be transformed into a glamorous and confident adult. The magic in the wishing dust responds to her heartfelt plea, enveloping her in a brilliant glow as her wish takes effect.

Jenna wakes up to find herself 17 years in the future, now living as a successful editor at Poise magazine. She works alongside her friend Lucy Wyman, yet discovers that their magazine is facing fierce competition from a rival publication called Sparkle.

As Jenna adjusts to her new life, she seeks out Matty, who is now pursuing a career as a photographer in Greenwich Village. She realizes that her transformation has not only changed her status but also distanced her from her childhood friendships and who she truly is.

Despite her professional achievements, Jenna begins to experience internal conflict stemming from plagiarism scandals, a strained relationship with her parents, and romantic troubles. This turmoil highlights the personal sacrifices she has made for her success.

As tension mounts in the office, Jenna learns that her friend Lucy is scheming to undermine her position at Poise. Secrets unfold, leading Jenna to question the authenticity of her relationships and the price of her accomplishments.

Feeling overwhelmed by the consequences of her choices, Jenna decides to return to her childhood home in New Jersey. Here, she seeks solace and the love of her family, beginning a challenging journey of self-discovery.

Jenna realizes that Matty is on the verge of marrying someone else, prompting her to confront him about their broken relationship. During this pivotal moment, Jenna uncovers feelings of love that have lingered despite the years apart.

During their confrontation, Matty reveals that he has preserved Jenna's dollhouse, a poignant reminder of their shared past and his enduring affection. This revelation brings Jenna to tears as she understands the depth of his feelings.

With a heavy heart yet a sense of clarity, Jenna departs with the dollhouse, rekindling memories of their past and her forgotten wishes. Suddenly, a twist of fate lands her back in 1987, reliving her 13th birthday.

As she finds herself in her childhood home, Jenna encounters a younger Matty in their favorite hiding spot. In a moment of serendipity, they embrace and share their first heartfelt kiss, a symbol of a love that was meant to be.

After returning to her past, Jenna decides to take charge of her life and face Lucy’s machinations head-on. In a moment of personal liberation, she destroys the homework that once dominated Lucy’s life, affirming her choice to follow her true desires.

Embracing her second chance, Jenna charts a new path that leads to a fulfilling life with Matty. Together, they build a lovely suburban home reminiscent of the cherished dollhouse, symbolizing the magic of love and new beginnings.