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Kid Review
“Kitt Kittredge:
An American Girl”

Reviewed by
Gabrielle Kasten, 9, Marietta

I think the American Girl movie about Kit Kittredge was awesome! Whether you enjoy American Girls Dolls or not, you will still love this movie. At the beginning of the movie, we meet Kit at a time in American history that was called The Great Depression. The movie shows that there were people willing to work together and others who took advantage of that generosity. Kit is a girl who wants to be published in the newspaper, and helps her family make it through a hard time.

What parents will like about it: The movie provides an accurate historical picture of the Great Depression, its politics, prejudices and the hardships people faced every day. It’s also a very heartwarming, feel-good story that will make youngsters think about the importance of family, and always striving for the truth. Plus, the all-star cast (including Chris O’Donnell, Joan Cusack, Julia Ormand and Stanley Tucci) makes you feel more like you’re watching any old movie rather than one designed for kids.

– TRT


Abigail Breslin in a scene from Kit Kittredge: An American Girl
© 2008 From HBO Films/A Picturehouse release
Photos by Cylla von Tiedemann

At the young age of 12, Abigail Breslin – the star of Kit Kittredge: An American Girl – has already been nominated for an Academy Award for her roll in Little Miss Sunshine. But, underneath her superb acting abilities, this soon-to-be teenager is just like the kids you have at home… full of energy, dreams and is totally in love with High School Musical 2. “It’s on my iPod,” she confessed when Atlanta Parent recently sat down with her at the W Midtown. “My friend and I were at a restaurant listening to it, and were singing the songs so loud people were staring at us.” Breslin is also a fan of Hannah Montana and the Jonas Brothers.

For all those American Girl lovers out there, Breslin is right there with you. She’s been collecting the dolls for years. “Abby was my first doll, but Kirsten is my favorite,” she said. Breslin’s room is also home to Kit’s bed, desk and typewriter, as well as Coconut and other American Girl accessories.

A few of Abigail
Breslin’s favorite things

Favorite food: Pizza, just cheese or pepperoni

Subjects in school: Reading and art

Things to do for fun: Swimming, painting and shopping

Birthday party: Disneyland – “I just had my 12th birthday, and it was at Disneyland. That was pretty cool!”

Favorite books: Anne of Green Gables (which she just finished reading)

Playing Kit in a movie was a dream come true for Breslin since she’s always loved the dolls. Her favorite thing about them: that they each represent a piece of history and have their own unique stories. As for playing the aspiring reporter, Breslin loved it. “Kit was fun to play because she’s so curious.”

On the set, Breslin was still responsible for her schoolwork, which she does with a tutor for three hours each day. “I was homeschooled before I started acting,” Breslin explained. “My brothers [16 and 23] were always homeschooled, too.” And, mom is always on-hand to make sure she’s staying on track. Breslin said she misses her dad, brothers and pets – two dogs, two cats and a turtle named Manny – most when she’s shooting a movie.

Being in the movies isn’t something Breslin always dreamed of – she got her first roles in commercials by tagging along with her brother to his auditions. “Then I just kept at it since it was fun,” Breslin said. If acting doesn’t keep her interest, Breslin has a back up plan – veterinarian.

Breslin’s advice to aspiring young actors was short and sweet: “Have fun. Keep trying.”

 

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