[.ca] Samantha: An American Girl Hol

From Amazon.com:
The American Girl collection of books, dolls, and accessories makes its film debut in this inaugural title featuring bestselling character Samantha, in a live-action holiday story set in 1904. AnnaSophia Robb plays Samantha Parkington, a poised yet playful 9-year-old who lives with her wealthy grandmother (Mia Farrow) in a country estate after the untimely death of her parents. Still grieving her loss, Samantha takes comfort in her friendships with new pal Nellie, a servant girl, and her dashing Uncle Gard (Jordan Bridges), a successful businessman. When Uncle Gard marries Cornelia (Rebecca Mader), Samantha is reluctant to embrace this female "intruder" until she spends three months with the newlyweds in New York City. In time, Samantha grows to trust and admire Cornelia, a spirited suffragette. Emboldened by Cornelia's example, Samantha takes her own courageous risks to improve the plight of some young orphans. This superbly produced film provides a glimpse into America during the Industrial Revolution, while showcasing the promising talents of young Robb. (Ages 8 and older) --Lynn Gibson

Educational and Delightful!:
By way of disclosure, I am an American Girls Junkie, as are my wife and daughter. Their books and movies provide an excellent mechanism with which to teach living history to young girls. "Samantha, An American Girl Holiday" is no exception. For those of you unfamiliar with Samantha, she is a wealthy orphan living in New York in 1904. This movie tells the story of Samantha's developing friendship with Nellie O' Malley, the daughter of an Irish domestic servant. As the film progresses, the viewer enjoys the breakdown of distinctions between social classes, first among the children, then among the adults. From an historical perspective, it shows the life of the wealthy, their servants and the suffragette movement. The movie is Pollyannaish, to be sure, but still delightful. Enjoy as you learn!