Saige Paints the Sky

I have never seen an "American Girl" film, and in fact have been quite cynical of the obvious marketing goals. Well, this film belies my prior views, as it is worth every second of watching.

The writing is for young girls, of course, but I am an adult male who likes "Batman" films, and the writing, quickly-paced direction, and acting (what an extraordinary bunch of little girl actresses!) all combined to bring tears to all our eyes.

I don't give it a "10" for one reason: I dislike the constant warm back- lighting; it is reminiscent of those cheesy "wholesome breakfast" ads where people eat surrounded by wheat fields early in the morning.

If you get a chance to see this re-run, please do yourself a favor and don't miss it!

I have always enjoyed the American Girl movies and the values they teach, but this one has been by far the one I have enjoyed the most. It has an easy to follow plot for children and scenes that will keep them interested in the movie while showing them skills they will need to cope with life's issues.

One thing that caught my attention was that Saige's grandmother's home there was a fireplace with a fire, but the movie takes place in a warm climate, so I found it a little strange that a fireplace was lit.

Jane Seymour's acting was excellent, as always and she really gave the character a warmth that was vital to touching scenes like when she meets Saige at the Fiesta.

All in all, I simply loved this movie and I have to say that this is one of my favorite American Girl movies.

In Albuquerque, New Mexico, Saige Copeland is 9 years old and loves to paint. Her father (Kerr Smith) is flying a balloon at the local festival. Her best friend Tessa has a new friend Dylan from music camp. Tessa seems to have more in common with Dylan now. New kid Gabi Peña tries to befriend Saige. Budget cuts have forced art class to alternate with music class and this year, the art class is cut. Her grandma Mimi (Jane Seymour) suggests a protest against the cut. Sidney Fullmer is a charming lead without too much overacting. Saige is no saint as she struggles to find her way. Her difficulties with her best friend are well done. It is a little light weight but it's a good movie for young girls.

I've just watched this a few moments ago with my 7 year old. The theme throughout is about change, overcoming fear of change, and restoring things lost. It also promotes the value of art and music, has some nice examples throughout. It promotes the importance of friendship and cooperation. It is a very good, safe film for young children to watch. Its plainness of presentation makes the life messages clear for them. For the adult watching, it might seem cheesy at first (there's rather a lot of "cool"s and "awesome"s), but as you continue watching it with your child, the film continues getting better and better to the end and you enjoy and are really affected positively by it. Definitely a film to recommend! David

Some of the American Girl movies made in the past were way better than this one!

What bothered me the most is that they use 11, 12, and 13 yr old actresses and say in the movie that they are NINE ! Really ??!! That is embarrassing and ridiculous !! Even my 9 yr old noticed that these girls are NOT 9 ! Not to mention that the characters in these newer AG movies are portrayed as super-ultra talented kids that are good at everything! The make-up even make them look more mature that they are in real life !

How sad...