KIT KITTREDGE
Review - Matt Mungle
Kit Kittredge may be the surprise film of the holiday weekend. The surprise being how fun it is for the entire family and not just pre teen girls who hang out in doll stores. I went into this film expecting cookie cutter cutsie and instead received a story that was relevant and thought provoking. Kit should be an inspiration to everyone needing a reminder of what makes a person of substance. Plus, it is a whole lot of fun.
The film takes place in the early years of the American Depression and we find the Kittredge family, though upper class, being hit hard by tough times. Kit has to deal with a summer that most kids today have no concept of. The thought of having to take in borders or wear hand me down clothes or simply do without anything but the bare necessities in life seem foreign and not what most American Girls have to deal with. But it was a real way of life and this film shows those times as they were. But it does it with heart and the spirit of togetherness that at one time made our country survive.
As depressing as the depression was, this film does present itself in a light way. Kit deals with the hard times with an upbeat outlook and the film is more about her adventures than anything else. Hobos were rampant during that time and took the blame for most crimes committed. When a few young hobo friends of Kit's get in trouble it is up to her to solve the mystery and figure out if the rumors are true or if these youngsters have been wrongly accused.
I love the cast of this film. Abigail Breslin, Julia Ormond, Chris O'Donnell,Stanley Tucci and Joan Cusack all do splendid in this family geared film. It is hard to make a G rated, live action film that still has a humor and wit with any kind of depth. Most come across sappy and the actors seem to just go through the motions with no passion. Not here. There was a magic about this film that seemed to captivate them as much as the audience. Each adds a special element to the fun and adventure of Kit Kittredge.
As I mentioned, it is rated G and perfect family fun for this holiday weekend. During a time when we focus on the freedoms we have in this great country it is always a little sobering to be reminded of how it was not always so grand. Even now when our economy is not doing well we are still nowhere as bad off as our past generations in the 40's. Kit Kittredge is a good way to teach your kids about thankfulness and appreciation for what they have while enjoying an adventurous time in the theater. I give Kit 4 out of 5 Hobo Jungles. You are sure to enjoy this one.
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