By Camden Tucker | Special to the NB Indy
Christy Wegner’s feature documentary “All American Girls” tells the story of how American Girl creator Pleasant Rowland’s brand centered around messages of empowerment and encouraging girls to voice their opinions, later exploding into a phenomenon that has shaped the lives of generations of Americans, from the 80s to the early 2000s.
As someone who grew up lucky enough to have an American Girl Doll, I was immediately drawn to this documentary. From the colorful, eye-catching editing and inclusion of stop motion, an art form that feels nostalgic due to its interconnectedness within the American Girl Doll community, to the detailed history of the dolls and the brains behind their creation, “All American Girls” speaks to audiences worldwide, delivering a powerful message of inclusion – women and girls shouldn’t be afraid to take up space.
The interview testimonies from longtime American Doll lovers provide an inside look at how the brand has personally impacted individuals of all ages and backgrounds. The film also shows us how this change in perspective came about during a time when women didn’t often hold high positions in the workplace, a shift that became possible when Rowland pushed open the door.
“All American Girls” marks the only time that Rowland has granted rights to her story, sharing a rare behind-the-scenes look at popular characters she created, and insights into how she brought the iconic brand to life.
The film shares the highs and lows Rowland faced, from pushback from men who didn’t believe in her vision to the legacy American Girl will forever hold.
It’s not every day that audiences get such a close look at stories from such a familiar brand. This is a film you do not want to miss.
“All American Girls” screens on October 18 and 21. For tickets to the Newport Beach Film Festival, visit www.NewportBeachFilmFest.com.
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