Reviews

This movie could simply not get any better. I am not going to try and sound like a film snob by saying big words. This movie is real in the midst of it's ridiculousness, it is hilarious, and it is emotional on a level that I have never seen before in a movie. I didn't know whether to sob or fall on the floor laughing as it ended, as I was sort of doing a combination of both at the film's culmination. I have honestly not laughed so hard at a movie since I saw 'Home Alone' as a third grader. It makes many insightful, funny, wise and at times 'sickens you as you ponder what your country values' comments, but it's the overall statement that will stay with you. Don't mistake it for a movie promoting mediocrity. On the contrary, it is a life affirming movie that reminds us that in spite of all the darkness of life we have to just keep dancing through, or it's all for nothing. Best movie this year, and in my opinion, ever.

My fiancé and I could not help but laugh at the ridiculousness of this movie the whole way through. Very rarely does a teen movie THIS cheesy come along...I had hoped it would be smarter than it was.

That said though, it is full of really great messages for the little/young girls who would mostly go to this movie, including: you can be pretty AND keep your clothes on, tanning does not necessarily make you pretty, friends should always come first (BEFORE boys!), some crushes are unrealistic but its OK because they're still fun!, sometimes the best choice is the hardest one to make, etc. etc. etc.

It really does have a very sweet theme about love...love for our friends, our family, and healthy, realistic teen love. I can't wait to take my four little sisters who are 11, 9, 7 and 5, and I have no reservations about doing so. They will LOVE it!!!

This movie is great for little girls to watch, or for any girl who grew up with American Girl stories. It is a great story in a historical context which helps children understand how our country was born, as well as how girls lived at this time in history. SO family friendly- it has great morals and lessons for children to watch in a movie. Also helps girls to understand a little bit about the divisions that politics bring among people, and how we can love each other regardless of differing opinions. Could lead to some great discussions with your girls.

On the other side, the acting is occasionally predictably TV-movie cheesy...a few cringe-worthy sappy moments, and Felicity's intense love for a horse is uncomfortably obsessive. The best acting in the movie is from little Eulala Scheel, Marcia Gay Harden's (who also plays Mrs. Merriman) real-life daughter. She is adorable as Nan, Felicity's little sister. It is sweet to see such a great actress doing something so fun and memorable with her little girl. I would buy this on DVD for myself and to watch with my daughters in the future. Overall very enjoyable.