The documentary "Cookie Queens," executive produced by Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, has received a lukewarm reception from critics and underperformed at the US box office since its August 7 release. The film, which follows U.S. Girl Scouts selling cookies, has been labeled a "sweet but staged reality show ramble" by some critics, with one viewer advising others to "Don't waste your money."
Opening in 446 cinemas, "Cookie Queens" generated less than £250,000, failing to rank among the top ten highest-grossing films. The 91-minute film, described by Meghan as "absolutely irresistible," documents the experiences of girls aged five to 12 during the annual cookie-selling season, a tradition dating back to the First World War. It covers the challenges scouts face, including demanding customers and deadlines, as they fundraise for their troops and local charities.
While the film garnered a 92 percent approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes from 49 reviews, the critical consensus has been mixed. Variety described the film as "too much of a reality-show ramble," and critic Owen Gleiberman noted its lack of emotion, stating it focused on "precocious American girls learning to work the system, not fight it." The San Francisco Chronicle called the documentary "as staged as it is sweet."
Distributor Roadside Attractions reported that the film resonated well with groups of current and former Girl Scouts, with one reviewer calling it "one of the worst documentaries I have ever seen" and another expressing disappointment that it focused heavily on sales rather than the broader principles of scouting.
This release marks the latest in the Duke and Duchess of Sussex's efforts to establish themselves in Hollywood following their 2020 Netflix deal. Their previous Netflix project, the documentary series "Harry & Meghan," was a success, but subsequent ventures have faced challenges. The couple's production company, Archewell Productions, also had a Spotify podcast deal end in 2023. "Cookie Queens" was not picked up by Netflix.
Despite the mixed critical and commercial reception, Roadside Attractions expressed optimism, stating, "We're encouraged by the response and believe the film has a long life ahead as it continues to reach its many audiences."