Royal-Produced Cookie Doc Critique
Meghan Markle and Prince Harry's 'Cookie Queens' Documentary Reviewed as a Reality-Show Ramble
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A new documentary called "Cookie Queens," produced by Meghan Markle and Prince Harry, follows four girls as they compete to sell as many Girl Scout Cookies as possible in a single season. The film, directed by Alysa Nahmias, is now drawing attention — though not all of it is positive. Variety called it "too much of a reality-show ramble."
The documentary touches on Girl Scout Cookie history, covering the nine current cookie varieties and a look at discontinued flavors. But critics say the film feels more like a reality TV show than a proper documentary, leaning heavily on the drama of eager parents and competitive kids rather than deeper storytelling.
What the Film Is Actually About
"Cookie Queens" centers on four girls trying to sell the most cookies during the annual Girl Scout Cookie season. Director Alysa Nahmias frames their efforts like a competition, according to Variety. The film invites viewers to root for each girl as she hustles to hit her sales goals.
The documentary also walks viewers through some history. It covers all nine current Girl Scout Cookie varieties. It even looks at flavors that no longer exist. Girl Scout Cookie sales have grown into what Variety describes as a "wholesome Middle American pastime."
Critics Say the Doc Loses Its Focus
Despite the historical material, reviewers say the film does not dig deep enough into the past. Variety noted that the documentary focuses mostly on the present and future, skipping the richer story of how Girl Scout Cookies became a cultural institution over more than a century.
The bigger criticism is the film's format. By framing the story as a contest, the director shifts attention away from the girls' personal growth and toward parental involvement. Variety said the film invites viewers to "chortle in admiration" at how intensely some parents push their daughters to sell more boxes.
Meghan and Harry's Producing Role Draws Eyes
The documentary is one of several projects tied to Meghan Markle and Prince Harry's media work since leaving the British royal family. Their names on the project have drawn significant attention. The couple attended the David Foster Foundation 40th Anniversary Celebration in Victoria, British Columbia on August 7, according to Just Jared, keeping their public profile active.
Their production involvement gives "Cookie Queens" a higher profile than a typical niche documentary would normally get. But critics suggest the royal brand may be doing more work than the film itself. The doc is generating buzz — just not necessarily the kind its producers were hoping for.
Should You Watch It? Here Is the Bottom Line
If you love Girl Scout Cookies, there is something here for you. The film covers real history and profiles real kids with real ambition. The girls themselves come across as genuinely motivated, and their stories have heart.
But if you are looking for a tight, well-crafted documentary, Variety suggests you may be disappointed. The reality-show structure dilutes the stronger material. The result is a film that feels scattered — part history lesson, part competition show, and not quite enough of either.
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