Harriet the Spy: Blog Wars

Harriet the Spy: Blog Wars, directed by Ron Oliver, is a colorful and riveting 2010 family film that beautifully blends humor, suspense, and charm, making it a must-watch movie for every family. The film is an adaptation of Louise Fitzhugh’s best-selling 1964 novel titled ‘Harriet the Spy.’

The film revolves around the life of the vivacious and inquisitive Harriet M. Welsch, a teenage girl aspiring to be a popular journalist in her high school newspaper. Woodley Academy student, Harriet, energetically portrayed by Jennifer Stone (of Wizards of Waverly Place fame), is an influential blogger and aspiring reporter who instinctively understands the power behind holding a pen.

Harriet is a natural spy with an innate ability for keen observation and quick wit. Using these traits, she writes engaging blogs about the going-ons of her school, intending to thrill her fellow students with the spiciest and most humorous school gossip and news. Harriet strives to become the official blogger of her high school class, a position that will undoubtedly pave her way to her dream of becoming an investigative journalist.

Kristin Booth, portraying Harriet’s loving mother Golly, a film producer, is instrumental in supporting Harriet and her lofty dreams. The plot thickens when Golly lands a project with popular teen movie star, Skander Hill, played commendably by Wesley Morgan. Skander Hill is shooting a remake of the classic film "Spy Teen," which is highly anticipated by the entire student-body of Woodley Academy.

The rival character in the film is played by Vanessa Morgan, who takes on the role of Marion Hawthorne, Harriet’s classmate and wealth-obsessed arch-nemesis. Marion wants to undermine Harriet to procure the official blogger position for herself to escalate her social standing. This leads to a fierce rivalry between Harriet and Marion. As they square-off for their goals, Blog Wars engages viewers with humor, suspense, and a vivid live wire rivalry.

The movie delightfully captures the ‘battle of the blogs’ as Harriet craftily utilizes her spy skills, in-depth observations, and witty writing to hold her own in the face of competition from Marion, who has the advantage of popularity and wealth. The film adeptly highlights how Harriet uses her intelligence and skills while staying true to her objective of becoming a top-notch journalist.

Harriet the Spy: Blog Wars educates children about loyalty, patience, truth, and perseverance. The film emphasizes the importance of being true to oneself and having ultimate faith in one's abilities. At the same time, it throws light on undermining false personas and focusing on having genuine interactions.

Moreover, the film very subtly delves into the nuanced world of modern teenage dilemmas, the importance of passion, and the struggles of ambition. It encapsulates Harriet's adventurous journey on the slim balance of personal and professional life as she spirals into the world of blogging, rivalry, friendship, and the dream of becoming a journalist.

The strength of the film lies in its exciting storyline, endearing characters, and the cohesive integration of humor and life lessons. The performances by Jennifer Stone, Kristin Booth, and Wesley Morgan are full of energy and charisma, providing the narrative with the necessary punch and sassiness. The direction by Ron Oliver and the smart screenplay by Alexandra Clarke and Heather Conkie beautifully captures the essence of the changing times, intertwining the threads of traditional friendship values and modern technology.

In conclusion, Harriet the Spy: Blog Wars is an exciting coming-of-age tale about a young teen's endeavour to conquer her dreams. With layers of humor, entertaining rivalry, thoughtful insights about life, and infused with the charm of adolescence, Harriet the Spy: Blog Wars continues to inspire and entertain the young and young-at-heart alike. It beautifully emphasizes that maintaining integrity in the face of adversity is indeed the biggest victory.