What Is Kit Kittredge Movie? Family Film Guide

The Kit Kittredge movie, also known as “Kit Kittredge: An American Girl,” is a 2008 family drama film directed by Patricia Rozema. The movie is based on the American Girl character Kit Kittredge, created by Valerie Tripp. The film stars Abigail Breslin as Kit Kittredge, a young and aspiring journalist living in Cincinnati during the Great Depression.

Historical Context: The Great Depression The Great Depression, which lasted from 1929 to the late 1930s, was a time of significant economic downturn and social change in the United States. The stock market crash of 1929 led to widespread unemployment, poverty, and a sense of desperation among many Americans. The movie Kit Kittredge provides a glimpse into the lives of those affected by the Great Depression, including the Kittredge family, who struggle to make ends meet.

Plot Summary The movie follows Kit Kittredge, a 9-year-old girl who dreams of becoming a journalist. She lives with her parents, Margaret and Jack Kittredge, in a boarding house, where they take in guests to make ends meet. Kit’s father loses his job, and the family faces financial difficulties. Despite the challenges, Kit remains determined to pursue her passion for writing and starts a newspaper to tell the stories of the people affected by the Depression.

Central Themes The movie explores several central themes, including:

1. Perseverance and Resourcefulness: Kit’s determination to pursue her dreams, despite the obstacles she faces, is a testament to the importance of perseverance and resourcefulness.
2. Family and Community: The movie highlights the importance of family and community in times of need. The Kittredge family and their boarders come together to support each other during difficult times.
3. Empathy and Understanding: Kit’s newspaper becomes a platform for her to tell the stories of those affected by the Depression, promoting empathy and understanding among her readers.

Supporting Characters The movie features a range of supporting characters, including:

1. Will Shepherd: A mysterious and charming guest at the boarding house who becomes a mentor to Kit.
2. Ruth Coleman: A kind and gentle boarder who becomes a close friend to Kit.
3. Countee: A young boy who becomes Kit’s friend and confidant.

Symbolism and Motifs The movie uses several symbols and motifs to convey its themes and messages. For example:

1. The Newspaper: Kit’s newspaper represents her passion for writing and her determination to tell the stories of those affected by the Depression.
2. The Boarding House: The boarding house serves as a symbol of community and support, where people come together to help each other during difficult times.

Awards and Reception The movie received generally positive reviews from critics, with many praising Abigail Breslin’s performance as Kit Kittredge. The film holds a 74% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, with an average rating of 6.⁴⁄₁₀. The movie also received several awards and nominations, including the Humanitas Prize and the Young Artist Awards.

Family Film Guide The Kit Kittredge movie is suitable for families with children aged 8 and above. The film deals with mature themes, such as poverty, unemployment, and the Great Depression, but it does so in a way that is accessible and educational for younger viewers. Parents may want to use the movie as a starting point for discussions about history, economics, and social issues.

In conclusion, the Kit Kittredge movie is a heartwarming and educational film that offers a unique perspective on the Great Depression. With its strong themes, engaging storyline, and excellent performances, it is an excellent choice for families and history enthusiasts alike.