Barnes & Noble

The year is 1943. Molly (the charming Maya Ritter), a third grader, is determined to earn the role of "Miss Victory" in her school's Christmas extravaganza, as World War II turns her idyllic Illinois small-town life upside down. Even with the Andrews Sisters on the soundtrack and clips from vintage newsreels, Molly is not entirely a sentimental journey. This made-for-TV production is based on the American Girl book series and is sensitively directed by Joyce Chapra. It does an admirable job of depicting the hardships of life during wartime and the efforts made by families and communities on behalf of the war effort. Molly's doctor father is sent overseas to care for the wounded, and her family takes in Emily, a young British girl, to live with them. Rationing forces Molly to scale back her birthday party plans, and Molly's mother (Molly Ringwald) takes a factory job. "We're at war," she states. "Everyone has to do their part." Age-appropriate scenes manage to convey the tragedy of war as some make the ultimate sacrifice. Young viewers will share the anxiety Molly's family feels every time the doorbell rings, suggesting the arrival of a telegram that could bring terrible news about Molly's father. Molly's initial dislike for Emily, who, she assumes, comes from a privileged background, blossoms into friendship after Molly learns of Emily's tragic past. As with previous American Girl-based films, Molly is to be saluted for natural performances, commendable role models, and a sense of history that will give viewers a keen idea of what it was like to grow up in another era. Donald Liebenson

All Movie Guide

You've met Samantha and Felicity, and in this, the third installment of the American Girl series, viewers are treated to an all-new family-friendly adventure that will warm your heart during the chilly holiday season. Molly Ringwald and Maya Ritter star as director Joyce Chopra brings the best-selling books about the lovable Molly McIntire to life on the big screen for the first time ever. The year is 1943 and war is raging across the globe. Molly's father is tending to wounded soldiers far from home, and all of the rubber rationing and turnips have gotten put the usually cheerful youngster into an uncharacteristically drab mood. To make matters worse, young Molly soon discovers that her father will not be able to return home for the holidays. But Molly isn't about to let her spirit be broken by the fact that her father is away performing his patriotic duties. Thanks to a little help from her family and friends, Molly is about to learn a lasting lesson about the importance of pulling together in times of need. Jason Buchanan

Product Details

• UPC: 012569819870
• Source: WARNER HOME VIDEO
• Region Code: 1
• Aspect Ratio: Full Frame
• Sound: Dolby AC-3 Surround Sound
• Editions: Subtitled
• Time: 1:25:00
• Sales Rank: 14,052

This DVD is also available as part of a box set:

• American Girl 3 Pack

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