First introduced in 1986, The American Girl doll collection has become a worldwide phenomenon, launching specialized shops across America which features everything a fan of the doll could want. In 1992, the franchise also launched a bi-monthly magazine and 2008 saw the release of the well received feature film, Kit Kittredge: An American Girl. With the London Olympics set to start on July 12, 2007 and gymnastics always one of the most popular attractions, it seems appropriate that the latest in the An American Girl films, the direct-to-video McKenna Shoots for the Stars to debut on July 2, 2012.

Fourth grader McKenna Brooks (Jade PettyJohn) is a dedicated gymnast, focused on making it to the Olympics. However, her desire to reach the regionals has her determined to perform an extremely difficult back handspring dismount against the advice of her coach (2-time Olympic gymnast Cathy Rigby). While McKenna’s coach is warning her about potential injury, McKenna’s best friend and fellow gymnast, Toulane (Ysa Penarejo) encourages her.

McKennaIn the midst of all this, McKenna faces mounting troubles at school. Her parents (Nia Vardalos, Ian Ziering) get the news that she falling behind and perhaps she’ll need a tutor to catch up. McKenna attempts to catch up on her own, but after failing a test she is forced to accept the help of a tutor. McKenna is so embarrassed about needed help that she doesn’t tell Toulane or fellow gymnast Sierra (Kally Berard)

It’s through her tutoring experience that McKenna gradually learns she must learn to balance gymnastics and the other things on her life. While pursuing the dream of being an Olympian is wonderful, you must do your homework and cultivate the relationships with your family and friends. Further, if McKenna is going to accomplish a momentous dream like making it to the Olympics, it’s important she accept the help of others along the way.

While I’m not part of the American Girl fan base, it’s easy to see that fans will appreciate this film. While a bit predictable, the story is well told and has an inspiring message for young girls about trying to be the best that they can be. Importantly, the story remains grounded in reality throughout.

Presented in the 1.78:1 aspect ratio, Universal’s 1080p transfer is a solid one. The image is clear and colors are bright and vibrant throughout. Black levels appear consistent. Skin tones look normal and no digital anomalies affect the transfer.

The DTS-HD 5.1 Master Audio track performs well, allowing for clear dialogue. While this isn’t a special effects film, we do get some surround activity when the girls are practicing their routines in the gym.  The soundtrack features quite a few songs; all come through clean and strong.

English SDH, French, and Spanish subtitles are available.

While a DVD and Digital Copy are included, there are no special features.

Available exclusively at Wal-mart and for Digital Download.