Shirley Temple in a role that seems custom-made for her, portrays the spirited young heroine of the popular children’s novel, giving her a rich emotional depth and infinite charm. When her aunt tires of caring for her, orphan Heidi is taken into the Swiss mountains to live with her gruff grandfather (Jean Hersholt), a hermit who comes to adore her. But the aunt returns to steal Heidi away, selling her to a family whose invalid daughter (Marcia Mae Jones) needs a companion. Bullied by an evil governess (Mary Nash), Heidi still charms the entire household and never stops trying to return to her beloved grandfather. In black and white.
Starring Shirley Temple, Jean Hersholt, Arthur Treacher, Helen Westley, Thomas Beck.
Parents need to know that this charming Shirley Temple classic should provide wholesome and exciting entertainment across generations. There are very few issues of concern, expect for some stern and briefly menacing behavior toward the child, but the messages of positivity will shine through. Besides the entertainment value, parents and children can discuss how Shirley Temple was one of the first child stars of the silver screen, and how she compares to today’s kid celebs. – Common Sense Media