I happened to come across this movie by accident. I had a bad cold and nothing looked good enough for me to watch. So I gave this movie a chance and all I can say is, I'm glad I did. It took my mind off me feeling bad and sucked me into Eloises world.
I don't know why anybody would call her a spoiled brat. She is a very sweet loving girl that happens to live in the Plaza as her (rich) mom is never there for her. All she has is her Nanny (wonderful Julie Andrews) and all the guests and staff at the Plaza. Yes, in the beginning you might be tempted to find her annoying, but this will change real quick and you will fall in love with her. I know I did.
Kudos to the girl who played Eloise, wonderful job, hope to see her again in another movie.
So anyway, I think it teaches us that money might help but is not the most important thing.