The film follows the story of Harriet M. Welsch (played by Michelle Trachtenberg), an 11-year-old girl living in New York City who dreams of becoming a writer. Harriet is an aspiring spy who spends her days observing and recording the activities of her friends, neighbors, and classmates in her beloved notebook.
Harriet’s world is turned upside down when her classmates discover her notebook and read its contents, including brutally honest observations and criticisms of their behavior. Feeling betrayed and humiliated, Harriet becomes an outcast at school and struggles to repair her damaged relationships.
As Harriet grapples with the fallout from her actions, she also faces challenges in her personal life, including conflicts with her parents and the arrival of a mysterious new nanny named Golly (played by Rosie O’Donnell), who becomes a mentor and confidante to Harriet.
Through her experiences, Harriet learns important lessons about friendship, empathy, and the power of words. She begins to understand the impact of her actions on others and discovers the value of honesty, forgiveness, and self-expression.
In the climax of the film, Harriet must confront her own mistakes and find a way to make amends with her friends. With Golly’s guidance and support, she embarks on a journey of self-discovery and redemption, ultimately finding the courage to apologize and rebuild her friendships.
In the end, Harriet learns that true friendship is built on trust, understanding, and acceptance. She emerges from her ordeal with a newfound sense of maturity and compassion, ready to embrace the challenges and adventures that lie ahead.
“Harriet the Spy” is praised for its heartwarming story, strong performances, and positive messages about friendship, resilience, and self-discovery. Michelle Trachtenberg delivers a standout performance as the spunky and determined Harriet, while Rosie O’Donnell brings warmth and humor to her role as the wise and caring Golly. Overall, the film remains a beloved classic that continues to resonate with audiences of all ages.