I Rewatched Harriet the Spy and Realized I Was Wrong About One Thing

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The movie titled “Harriet the Spy” holds a special place in my heart, reminding me of my childhood days. I would often rewatch it as I grew up. As a child, I aspired to be a writer and found a kindred spirit in Harriet’s dedication to her art. Her passion for observation sparked an interest in people-watching within me, which might have been inspired by the film. Furthermore, “Harriet the Spy” is the reason I developed a fondness for Michelle Trachtenberg.

To show my support for her growing career, I’d frequently watch movies she starred in. I can still recall the thrill I felt when I heard she was part of the cast for “Buffy the Vampire Slayer.

Reflecting on Trachtenberg’s passing, I found myself drawn back to the cinematic journey that ignited my admiration for him – “Harriet the Spy.” As an adult revisiting this film for the first time, it was a fascinating exploration of perspectives, as the certainty I held as a child differed significantly from my current viewpoint.

One significant plot from the book “Harriet the Spy” has taken on a new perspective for me as I view it through the lens of adulthood.

I Used To Be On Harriet’s Side When It Came To The War Against Her Classmates

Reflecting on those days, I recall feeling that my fellow peers excessively reacted to Harriet’s diary. Her remarks were harmless and purely honest observations. Yet, the Sport section (written by Gregory Smith) always stood out as it seemed unnecessarily harsh even back then. Adding fuel to the fire, we also learn about his financial struggles, which makes her seemingly callous comments regarding them all the more unnecessary and inappropriate.

1) His embarrassed expression really resonated with me deeply. As a kid, everything else seemed so absurd to me. Writing often requires a harsh approach for uncovering the truth. In my teenage years, I strongly felt that revealing truth in various aspects was an essential duty of any writer.

It’s become clear to me that, similar to Harriet, I was overloading myself. While honesty matters greatly in writing, being truthful and being unkind are two distinct aspects.

Just as it turned out for Harriet, I was taking on too much. Honesty is crucial when writing, but telling the truth doesn’t mean being harsh or cruel.

Now I Realized Some Of Her Opinions And Observations Were Extremely Harsh

Upon listening to Harriet’s diary entries, I had an instant shift in my response. Harriet is not only truthful but also harsh in some of her appraisals. She criticizes various aspects, such as financial standing, physical attributes, mental health, and social abilities, without reservation. In addition, she delivers blunt comments, like suggesting a student contemplate suicide. Furthermore, she exposes the children’s deepest vulnerabilities.

What Harriet shared wasn’t essential, particularly her additional views. Yet, her insights suggest a level of intelligence beyond her years. But, how could an eleven-year-old child think so deeply?

Harriet’s views led me to understand that she held a superior attitude towards her friends and classmates, often appearing two-faced. She would act kindly towards them, but secretly criticized their actions. If I were in Sport or Janie’s shoes, I might choose to end the friendship due to the suspicion that they are considered foolish by their friend, and that their family is seen as inferior. It’s challenging to maintain a bond with someone who harbors such thoughts about you and your background.

But, Her Classmates Were Also In The Wrong

Nonetheless, Marion’s personal journals and intimate thoughts were intended to remain confidential. The act of the children reading it without permission highlights their unethical behavior during this event. A sense of ethical conduct is at stake here. Private writings should be kept private for a reason. Given Marion’s cold-hearted demeanor, similar to a stereotypical mean girl character, you instinctively support Harriet in their conflict.

Later on, she escalates the situation significantly, rallying everyone against Harriet. At that time, I felt her peers took things to an excessive level following the incident. They began ostracizing and harassing Harriet instead. After rewatching Harriet the Spy, my initial impression remains valid: they take it way too far.

They treat Harriet poorly, not only making her feel miserable but also taking harsh measures such as forbidding her from spying, confiscating her journals, and infamously dumping paint on her. In essence, their retaliation for her unpleasant words is equally unpleasant behavior.

Harriet’s harsh treatment unites them strongly, as each member of the class initially splits off into separate groups but eventually joins forces to confront the wicked Harriet. The camaraderie among the class is enjoyable, while everything else about the situation seems absurd and far from enjoyable.

Harriet’s Revenge Is Slightly Justified But Still A Bit Devious

Once more, the younger version of myself encourages Harriet as she retaliates. “Give back the unkindness,” I exclaimed – let it be known that the younger me wasn’t a psychopath, merely ardently supporting Harriet. Re-watching Harriet the Spy, Sport’s reactions continue to tug at my heartstrings the most.

In his demeanor, it was clear he was deeply pained and disheartened by her actions; as a child, such heartache resonated with me. Observing this situation, I can understand why Harriet acts as she does, yet I do not condone her actions. To my eyes, her conduct appears more severe than that of her peers.

Expressing to Marion that her father doesn’t care for her deeply hurts. Regardless of how challenging a child might be, they shouldn’t have to endure the pain of being told that their parent doesn’t care for them.

Harriet’s penalties span from minor annoyances to verging on mental stress. Yet, she’s a kid character who means business, and that’s what makes her endearing to many kids, including me.

Now as an adult, I would be terrified.

The Actions Of Both Sides Seem Believable And Needed For Major Life Lessons

In a heartfelt reflection, I find myself drawn to the captivating tale of “Harriet The Spy.” This young protagonist, much like many of us at her age, exhibits behaviors that can be quite harsh or thoughtless. Yet, it’s crucial to remember that she is just a child, often unaware of the impact of her actions. As she navigates through life, she learns, grows, and eventually, I believe, leaves behind such behavior.

Though everyone seems to think they’re doing what’s right and reasonable, it appears, from a mature perspective, that they are giving in to their least favorable instincts. Despite its bluntness, this description seems quite fitting for depicting childhood, which is why it ranks among the top family movies.

The story effectively imparts important lessons without making them seem overt or compulsory. Children comprehend that Harriet apologizes to her friends as it’s the appropriate action. Furthermore, the film adaption is commendable because it accurately portrays Harriet’s character. Consequently, you never find yourself disliking her, despite her occasionally dubious actions.

As a youngster, Harriet is yet to fully mature, which often entails making mistakes and experiencing tough lessons. Her behavior, like that of her peers, is an integral part of their developmental process. Through this journey, she eventually learns from her past harsh judgments and transforms them into constructive insights.

As a movie critic, I must admit that my younger self and I have vastly different takes on films like “Harriet the Spy.” Back then, all I desired was to befriend the titular character. However, today, as an adult, I find myself more cautious, ensuring privacy isn’t compromised in such stories. Regardless of my evolving views, “Harriet the Spy” serves as a testament to Michelle Trachtenberg’s remarkable talent. In tribute to her, I will undoubtedly revisit more of her captivating performances on the silver screen.

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2025-03-04 13:52