Review of An American Girl: Chrissa Stands Strong

I watched this movie with my six year old daughter. It was a good way to discuss the topic of bullying, which is getting more and more attention every year. We were both drawn in by the story and situations and it kept us interested until the end. Chrissa moves to a new school and is bullied by an unforgettable character, fourth-grader Tara, who might be meaner than any character in Mean Girls. It was frustrating that we have to watch Chrissa endure so much abuse before anything changes. Along the way, she is punished by teachers for problems Tara created, but also befriends a classmate who has more hardships than her. The child actors do well, and the ending satisfies, even if you don't believe Tara would change so completely so quickly. I wouldn't call this light entertainment, but it was easy to watch, with a t.v.-movie quality to it. 6/10.