Cast
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Abigail Breslin
as Kit Kittredge
Chris O'Donnell
as Mr. Kittredge
Julia Ormond
as Mrs. Kittredge
Stanley Tucci
as Mr. Jefferson Jasper Rene Berk
Max Thieriot
as Will Shephard
Joan Cusack
as Miss Lucinda Bond
Glenne Headly
as Mrs. Howard
Jane Krakowski
as Miss May Dooley
Wallace Shawn
as Mr. Gibson
Madison Davenport
as Ruthie Smithens
Zach Mills
as Stirling Howard IV
Willow Smith
as Countee (Constance)
Martin Roach
as Hobo Doctor
Eddie Graff
as Sax-Playing Hobo
Austin Macdonald
as Roger
Crew
Director
- Patricia Rozema
Producer
- Lisa Roberts Gillan
- Elaine Goldsmith-Thomas
- Ellen L. Brothers
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Kit Kittredge: An American Girl examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of contemporary challenges that mirror our own experiences. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director Patricia Rozema brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 2008, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Kit Kittredge: An American Girl took approximately 11 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $10.0 million, the film proved to be a financial success, earning back its investment and more.
- The final cut of the film runs for 101 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 123 minutes long.
- The film contains approximately 2455 individual shots.
- The musical score contains over 54 unique compositions.
- The screenplay went through 7 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
Historical Context
- In 2008, when this film is released:
- The September 11 attacks changed global security and politics.
- Social media platforms were beginning to transform communication.
- Digital filmmaking technologies were transforming production processes and creating new opportunities.
How This Film Stands Out
While Kit Kittredge: An American Girl shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike The Ordinaries, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Kit Kittredge: An American Girl subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Frühstück mit einer Unbekannten and Mutants explore similar territory, Kit Kittredge: An American Girl stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: July 2, 2008
- Runtime: 1h 41m
- Budget: $10,000,000
- Revenue: $17,700,000
