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<p class=MsoNormal>Sylvie,<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class=MsoNormal>While I understand your concerns, I don’t think that
this particular movie will generate that kind of mania. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p>
<p class=MsoNormal>There are several reasons for my feelings: First, the
movie is based on an American Girl doll character (Kit Kittridge). As a
grandmother of 14 year old twins who were BIG into American Girl dolls,
particularly Kit, I know they and their clothing are expensive. (Side
note: on an 8<sup>th</sup> birthday present trip to American Girl Plaza,
the twins were actually called “Kit” because they resembled
her. My credit card took a BIG hit on that trip: two Kit dolls, 6 Kit
outfits, etc.). This, in and of itself, limits the sphere of influence on
young girls. There may be lots of little girls who see the movie, but
those who are likely to be most “into it” are those who have the
doll and have read the books. Secondly, in the books and in the
movie (at least to my understanding) Gracie is a rescued adult basset. I
think this is remarkable since the era of this character/book/movie is 1940-ish
and well before the time of organized rescue efforts. Finally, the movie
is really about the adventures, trials and tribulations of Kit during a
difficult financial time for her family and country. Gracie is definitely
a part of the family but the focus of the movie is not on Gracie. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p>
<p class=MsoNormal>I certainly hope that the movie doesn’t generate puppies
that are placed in untenable situations and more work for rescues. We
will keep our fingers (and paws) crossed, but I think the risk is much less
than that posed by the “cutesy” movies you mentioned. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p>
<p class=MsoNormal>Sandi Wittenberg<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class=MsoNormal>Red Bay Bassets<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p>
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