Full Breakdown
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's "Cookie Queens" Documentary Secures U.S. Distribution
3/12/2026, 11:06:05 PM
Overview of "Cookie Queens"
“Cookie Queens,” a documentary produced by Prince Harry and Meghan, Duke and Duchess of Sussex, has been acquired by Roadside Attractions for U.S. distribution. The film, directed by Alysa Nahmias, premiered at the Sundance Film Festival and is set to be featured at the South by Southwest (SXSW) festival before its exclusive theatrical release in the summer of 2026. The documentary explores the complexities of girlhood through the lens of the Girl Scout Cookie season, a cherished American tradition.
Key Details of the Documentary
“Cookie Queens” is described as a coming-of-age story that highlights the joys, pressures, and tensions associated with selling Girl Scout Cookies, including popular varieties like Thin Mints and Samoas. The film aims to shed light on the significant impact of this tradition, which generates approximately $800 million in annual sales through the efforts of young Girl Scouts. Nahmias emphasized that the documentary serves as a lens to explore themes of ambition, resilience, humor, and vulnerability as girls navigate the intersection of community and capitalism.
Production and Reception
The documentary is produced by Michael Dweck and Gregory Kershaw of Beautiful Stories, along with Nahmias for AJNA Films and Jennifer Sims. It has received critical acclaim, holding a 100% score on Rotten Tomatoes and garnering multiple standing ovations at its premiere. Roadside Attractions co-presidents Eric d’Arbeloff and Howard Cohen expressed their excitement about the film, noting its ability to resonate with audiences and its portrayal of an iconic American tradition.
Official Statements & Responses
Meghan Markle shared her personal connection to the film, stating, “As a former Girl Scout myself, with my mom as my troop leader, I have a personal affinity for this film.” She praised Nahmias's directing style, describing it as “edgy yet humanizing,” and highlighted the film's nostalgic yet modern take on Girl Scout Cookie season. Nahmias also remarked on the film's exploration of girlhood, stating, “For me, this became a fascinating lens to explore a story about girlhood — the ambition, resilience, humor, and vulnerability that emerge as these girls navigate growing up.”
What's Next for "Cookie Queens"
Following its festival appearances, “Cookie Queens” is set to open in theaters across the United States during the summer of 2026. The partnership with Roadside Attractions is seen as a strategic move to bring the film to a broader audience, emphasizing the importance of theatrical storytelling.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Cookie Queens shines a light on an iconic American tradition that millions of people recognize but rarely stop to consider,” — Eric d’Arbeloff, Co-President, Roadside Attractions
- “ “Girl Scout Cookies are more than a beloved tradition – they’re a big business where talented and hard-working girls generate $800 million in annual sales.” — Alysa Nahmias, Director
- “As a former Girl Scout myself, with my mom as my troop leader, I have a personal affinity for this film and am proud that Archewell Productions has partnered with this award-winning team to executive produce this incredibly captivating film,” — Meghan Markle, Duchess of Sussex
