I was one of the little ones caught up in the Cabbage Patch Kids craze of the early 1980s, and the frantic search to score the hottest Christmas gift is still a legend within my family. Nearly forty years later, I can still remember the absolute joy of unwrapping the most sought after toy of the decade that was placed under the tree when I was eight. And to this day, it still makes me smile.
Director Andrew Jenks captures a time capsule of one of the first consumer goods that was deemed to be “riot-worthy” in his fun and informative documentary “Billion Dollar Babies: The True Story of the Cabbage Patch Kids.” His film not only delves into a complete history of the doll’s origins, but also the role the brand had in creating the headline-grabbing stories of spectacular brawls on Black Friday.
Using archival footage, news reports, and interviews with collectors past and present, Jenks gives an exhaustive look at everything you’d ever want to know about the Cabbage Patch Kids, from their creation, the dispute and subsequent legal battle over the origin of the idea, and the ins-and-outs of running a billion dollar toy brand. These toys were different from the start, including a mythology created around the actual “cabbage patch” in the BabyLand General doll hospital in Georgia that “birthed” the “babies” who were then handed off for “adoption.” These dolls were treated as if they were human, and it sparked an absolute craze among adults and children alike. This in turn spawned a massive shortage of the toy, as well as a string of counterfeit items and accessories like clothing, diapers, and even bicycles that every Cabbage Patch “parent” simply had to have.
Narrated by Neil Patrick Harris, the documentary can absolutely be viewed as a statement on American consumerism, but it’s also quite entertaining. If you lived during this time, you’ll have a greater appreciation for just how silly all of this was while also remembering what a big deal it was if you were able to get your hands on one of these dolls. The pushing and shoving that occurred at toy stores across the country is something that’s unforgettable, and it’s mind blowing that the Cabbage Patch craze played such a large part in the future and current frenzied mentality of Black Friday deal shoppers.
If you’re interested in the subject matter (or the business of toys), you’ll find a lot to enjoy in “Billion Dollar Babies: The True Story of the Cabbage Patch Kids.” The documentary takes a look at how masterful merchandising, American capitalism, and a homegrown idea came together in one perfect storm that turned an army of ugly little dolls into legendary pop culture icons.
By: Louisa Moore
Screen Zealots 