ALL AMERICAN GIRLS Screening in Buffalo, New York
A message from Blake Changnon, founder, president, and CEO of The Changnon Family Museum of Toys and Collectibles:
Last weekend, I had the incredible opportunity to attend a screening of ALL AMERICAN GIRLS at the Buffalo International Film Festival!
Christy Wegener, Andrea Berman and the team at Conduit Films have created something truly special. ALL AMERICAN GIRLS tells the story of Pleasant T. Rowland, Valerie Tripp, Pleasant Company and American Girl, exploring the extraordinary impact their work has had on generations over the last 40 years.
Through archival materials, personal stories and interviews, the film brings this history to life in a way that feels both comprehensive and deeply personal. I loved hearing from Valerie, former Pleasant Company employees, fellow fans and, remarkably, Pleasant herself. Pleasant has rarely participated in filmed interviews about American Girl, making the opportunity to hear her reflect on her vision and legacy especially meaningful.
It was also incredibly special to experience the film alongside Connie Porter, author of the original Addy books and a participant in the documentary, in her hometown of Buffalo.
My deepest appreciation goes to Christy, Andrea and everyone at Conduit Films for including me in this documentary, not only as a fan who grew up loving American Girl, but also as a researcher, collector, museum founder and historian dedicated to preserving Pleasant Company and American Girl history.
Growing up, I was a boy who loved American Girl in a world that often told children which toys they were “supposed” to play with. To now share that story, alongside my knowledge of Pleasant Company history, in a documentary about something that meant so much to me as a child is something I will never forget.
I hope my story reminds children, parents and families of something important: let kids be who they are. Let them read the books they love, play with the toys they love and explore what fascinates them. You never know where those childhood passions might lead.
Thank you to everyone who brought ALL AMERICAN GIRLS to life. I am incredibly grateful to be a small part of this story. ❤️ #AAGDOC26