An American Girl: McKenna Shoots for the Stars (2012)
Synopsis:
In An American Girl: McKenna Shoots for the Stars, McKenna Brooks is a young gymnast with big dreams of making it to the top. As she trains hard for a spot on the competitive team, she struggles to balance her schoolwork and gymnastics. When her grades start slipping, her parents hire a tutor named Josie, who helps McKenna find new ways to succeed in both areas. Meanwhile, McKenna faces challenges at the gym, including a fall that tests her confidence. With the support of her family, friends, and coach, McKenna learns to overcome obstacles and work towards her goals. The movie follows her journey as she navigates the ups and downs of pursuing her passion for gymnastics.
Where To Watch: An American Girl: McKenna Shoots for the Stars
Parental Feedback
An American Girl: McKenna Shoots for the Stars, released in 2012, is a family-friendly drama aimed at kids, with a TV-G rating. The movie follows McKenna, a young gymnast, as she navigates challenges in both her sport and academics. Parents generally appreciate the film for its positive messages and relatable themes, though some note it may be a bit predictable. Overall, it is well-received for its inspiring story and strong role models.
Why Kids Should Watch An American Girl: McKenna Shoots for the Stars
The movie is praised for its uplifting messages and engaging storyline.
- Promotes perseverance and the importance of balancing academics and sports.
- Features a strong, determined protagonist who learns to overcome obstacles.
- Visually appealing gymnastics scenes that captivate young audiences.
- Encourages teamwork and friendship as McKenna relies on her friends for support.
Why Kids Shouldn’t Watch An American Girl: McKenna Shoots for the Stars
Some parents express concerns about the film's handling of certain themes.
- May present emotional challenges as McKenna struggles with self-doubt.
- Scenes of academic pressure might be intense for sensitive viewers.
- Some plot elements could be seen as predictable or formulaic.
Verdict: Parent Approved
Verdict: Parent Approved
Most parents agree this movie is a solid choice for kids because it offers positive role models, inspiring messages, and engaging visuals.
What Parents Should Know About An American Girl: McKenna Shoots for the Stars
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Does this movie model positive behavior that my child can understand and repeat? | McKenna learns to ask for help when she struggles, showing the importance of seeking support. |
| Does this movie include emotional moments my child might find confusing or intense? | McKenna's academic struggles and fear of failure may require parental guidance to discuss. |
| Does this movie show consequences for unkind or unsafe behavior? | Yes, McKenna faces consequences for neglecting her studies, highlighting the importance of responsibility. |
| Does this movie reinforce helpful social skills like sharing, apologizing, or teamwork? | McKenna's interactions with her friends emphasize teamwork and the value of supporting one another. |
| Will my child come away with any clear moral or message? | The core message is about perseverance and balancing different aspects of life, delivered through McKenna's journey. |
The Overall Sentiment From Parental Feedback
Parents appreciate An American Girl: McKenna Shoots for the Stars for its positive role models and inspiring messages about perseverance and balance. While some find the plot predictable, the film's strengths lie in its relatable characters and engaging visuals. Parental involvement can enhance the viewing experience by discussing the challenges McKenna faces. For those seeking similar content, other American Girl movies offer comparable themes and values.
Official An American Girl: McKenna Shoots for the Stars Trailer
Why Kids Love An American Girl: McKenna Shoots for the Stars
An American Girl: McKenna Shoots for the Stars takes kids on an exciting ride through the world of gymnastics. Kids love watching McKenna tackle one challenge after another, whether she’s perfecting an awe-inspiring routine on the beam or flipping through the air with determination. The gym becomes a bustling scene of action where teammates cheer as others push their limits to land daring maneuvers. Through it all, McKenna is a brave hero kids look up to, facing the thrill of competition and the pressure to perform with equal parts courage and enthusiasm. At school, her brainpower gets put to the test, and McKenna's smart problem-solving skills kick in, finding new ways to tackle tricky assignments and manage her time, capturing kids' imaginations with creativity and clever solutions.
The movie shines with exciting moments of friendship where McKenna and her friends team up, each with unique talents that make them a winning team. They plan epic talent shows that buzz with excitement and draw laughter from all corners. Kids love how relatable the sibling antics are when McKenna and her family unite, turning ordinary days into events packed with surprising fun and enthusiasm. With every scene, there's anticipation in seeing how McKenna proves herself and learns to lead, tackling big hurdles or helping friends rise to the occasion. The colorful world of gymnastics and school adventures keeps kids glued to the screen, rooting for McKenna every flip and twist along the way.