Felicity: An American Girl Adventure

What’s the Story?

Bringing another American Girl doll to life, FELICITY: AN AMERICAN GIRL ADVENTURE provides a hefty dose of American history as its story unfolds. Felicity (Shailene Woodley) is celebrating her 10th birthday in 1775 Williamsburg. With that milestone come new expectations that sit uncomfortably on the independent, horse-loving girl: She must now learn to be a lady. Meanwhile, Felicity discovers a beautiful thoroughbred horse -- whom she names Penny -- being mistreated by drunken neighbor Jiggy Nye (Geza Kovacs). With the complicity of her store-owning father's apprentice, Ben Davidson (Kevin Zegers), she tames the horse. But she herself isn't so easily tamed, chafing under the limitations of her schooling with Miss Manderly (Janine Theriault). Felicity commiserates with Ben, who wants to escape his apprenticeship to fight with the patriots who are arming for the Revolutionary War.

Is It Any Good?

The movie's attention to historical detail -- and its clear explanations of the tensions between loyalists and patriots during this era -- give it educational value that complements the suspenseful tale of Felicity's efforts to save Penny. Particularly thoughtful are the acknowledged tensions that arise between friends and family with different political views.

As Felicity, Woodley is energetic, though some of her dialogue sounds like it belongs on a cross-stitch sampler. This movie will appeal to girls who love horses and/or the American Girls. And with its talented cast and period-appropriate settings, it's a movie that parents can appreciate as well. Its Christmas Day climax makes it perfect for enjoying over the holidays as well.