Just an American Girl
by Brent Felgner -- Playthings, 10/1/2004
Samantha is headed for the small screen next month. American Girl fans need no further explanation, except maybe time and channel. For everyone else, Samantha Parkington, one of the three original characters in the American Girls Collection, will debut in a live action TV movie on the WB Network Thanksgiving week, in Samantha: An American Girl Holiday.
Nine-year-old AnnaSophia Robb has been cast as Samantha, with Kelsey Lewis as her friend, Nellie. Mia Farrow plays Samantha's wealthy grandmother, Grandmary.
The promotional build up to the movie began over the summer with the intro of an 18-inch Nellie doll. Nellie got her own book, Nellie's Promise, from author Valerie Tripp, in July and in August, an assortment of movie-related products was also introduced, including new outfits for Samantha and Nellie and Samantha's dog, Jip.
The promotional hoopla is extending into bookstores and other outlets including a national author tour, movie floor display, two-for-one doll drawings and sweepstakes. Also, 38 million catalogs will see consumer mail support.
There's even a movie night event kit for retailers with materials for up to 30 girls, including a planner, crafts and activities.
