Based on trailers for “Ice Princess,” this review would probably have had to focus mostly on Kim Cattrall — what else can be said about a silly Disney movie about an ice skater?

The answer — a lot more than one would expect. Yes, the plot is rather formulaic: A misfit follows her heart despite disapproval and ultimately succeeds. That’s fine. But what is special about “Ice Princess” are the small deviations and quiet commentary that sneak in, resulting in a remarkably unique story.

It seems director Tim Fywell was very concerned about making a movie about the unrealized potential of young women. Casey, played beautifully by Michelle Trachtenberg, is a high school junior and science whiz who discovers a raw talent for figure skating while working on a scholarship project.

With the reluctant permission of skating coach Tina, played by Cattrall, Casey spends her afternoons studying and secretly training. Casey’s feminist mother Joan, played by Joan Cusack, is horrified at her daughter’s interest in an activity that may seem to many as the antithesis to feminism. “It sets us back 50 years,” Joan preaches.

But Casey perseveres, and instead of totally forgetting about her passion for science, as most other teenage films would have had her do, she fuses her old passion with her new one. This is what makes “Ice Princess” so special. Fywell is careful to continually emphasize the importance of science and math in Casey’s life. In doing so, it seems Fywell comments on the potential all young women have to thrive in a stereotypically male-oriented field, while retaining and embracing their femininity.

Kind of a weighty message for a silly little Disney movie — which is what makes “Ice Princess” an essential for mothers with teenage daughters.

Further differentiating “Ice Princess” from its stereotypical genre is a strange element of reality present in the characters. Where many teenage films cast mid-twentysomethings to play 15-year-olds, the participants in “Ice Princess” are true to their character’s age — Trachtenberg at 19 is the oldest of her peers. Both actor and character is slightly nervous, confused and a little awkward, resulting in a solid, very believable performance.

Cusack and Cattrall are perfect choices for their respective roles, embodying two opposing forms of the strong independent female the film celebrates. Cattrall is feminine, sexy and ruthless, and with a striking performance, proves that she has survived “Sex and the City.” Cusack is the more subdued and dignified college professor, and though she is always the supporting role, somehow quietly steals the show. Both are still stunning in their 40s, and watching them play off each other on screen is witnessing concentrated strength, talent and beauty.

It is unfortunate when little gems like “Ice Princess” are misrepresented by cheesy titles and trailers that advertise them as little more than a run-of-the-mill formula movie. Do not be fooled. With a refreshing angle on the old teenage flick, “Ice Princess” is a remarkable surprise.