The Little Match Girl
The Little Match Girl

The Little Match Girl

1986Movie79 minEnglish

The Little Match Girl is a short story by Danish poet and author Hans Christian Andersen. The story is about a dying child's hopes and dreams, and was first published in 1845. This adaptation was made for Harlech TV and broadcast on 28th December 1986 and starred Twiggy and Roger Daltrey, and features the song 'Mistletoe and Wine' which became a Christmas number one for Cliff Richard in 1988, the biggest selling record of that year.

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Insights

IMDb5.7/10
Director: Michael T. MiddlemassGenres: Drama, Family, Fantasy

Plot Summary

Based on the classic Hans Christian Andersen fairy tale, this film follows the tragic story of a young, impoverished girl selling matches on a cold New Year's Eve. As she freezes, her desperate attempts to sell her wares are met with indifference by passersby. In her final moments, she lights her matches to find warmth and solace, envisioning beautiful scenes that ultimately lead her to a peaceful end.

Critical Reception

This adaptation of 'The Little Match Girl' is often cited as a somber and poignant retelling of the beloved fairy tale. While not a major critical darling, it's generally appreciated for its emotional impact and faithfulness to the source material's melancholic tone. Audiences often find it a touching, albeit sad, holiday viewing experience.

What Reviewers Say

  • A faithful and emotionally resonant adaptation of the classic story.
  • Praised for its touching portrayal of innocence and hardship.
  • Often considered a sad but meaningful holiday film.

Google audience: Information on specific Google user reviews for this particular adaptation is not readily available, but general audience reception tends to highlight its emotional depth and tragic narrative.

Fun Fact

While this is a lesser-known adaptation, the story of 'The Little Match Girl' has been adapted numerous times across various media, including animated shorts, live-action films, and even operas, due to its enduring and powerful themes.

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