Charming American girl

This summer, Hollywood’s “Little Miss Sunshine” Abigail Breslin brings her charm to her latest film, “Kit Kittredge: An American Girl.” The film brings to life the story of Kit, an American Girl doll whose life is set during the age of the Great Depression. This is a role that Breslin wholly inhabits and she is supported by a great ensemble cast.
   
In this period piece, Kit Kittredge is a motivated preteen with aspirations of being a reporter for the local Cincinnati newspaper. Unfortunately, these dreams are sidetracked as Kit must help her mother to make ends meet while her father (Chris O’Donnell) is away trying to find work.

Eventually, the Kittredge household becomes a boarding house filled with interesting tenants; when a nighttime theft occurs, Kit and her friends must find the thief so that her family doesn’t lose their home as well.

The incredible acting of the cast helps “Kit Kittredge” excel. Each character brings something unique to the table; some have funny quirks while others must act as the voice of reason.It is especially in the interactions among the characters that the film finds its spark and in retrospect, its charm.

Furthermore, in this children’s film, director Patricia Rozema’s storytelling doesn’t shy away from showing the struggles of the Great Depression and this aspects adds more emotional depth to the characters.   

With that said, Abigail Breslin still manages to stand out. She demonstrates throughout the film the strength children from that time must have had when faced with so much hardship at such an early age. Additionally, she is able to capture not only the audience’s attention, but their hearts as well.

Any actress that can do that is bound to have a successful career. Considering the fact that this film’s target audience is for young girls, it does a surprisingly good job of making a product that the whole family can enjoy. Kudos to director Rozema.