The Little Colonel
The Little Colonel

The Little Colonel

1935Movie80 minEnglish

After Southern belle Elizabeth Lloyd runs off to marry Yankee Jack Sherman, her father, a former Confederate colonel during the Civil War, vows to never speak to her again. Several years pass and Elizabeth returns to her home town with her husband and young daughter. The little girl charms her crusty grandfather and tries to patch things up between him and her mother.

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Insights

IMDb6.6/10
Director: David ButlerGenres: Comedy, Drama, Family, Romance

Plot Summary

In the post-Civil War South, a young girl named Lloyd struggles to reconcile her estranged parents. Her grandfather, a stern and traditional patriarch, disapproves of her father's marriage. Lloyd's spirited nature and determination to bring her family together, especially her relationship with her grandfather, form the core of this heartwarming story.

Critical Reception

The Little Colonel was a significant box office success and is primarily remembered for being the film that launched Shirley Temple into superstardom. Critics at the time praised its charm and family-friendly entertainment, particularly Temple's precocious performance. While some noted its sentimental nature, its appeal to audiences was undeniable.

What Reviewers Say

  • Shirley Temple's undeniable charisma and talent steal the show.
  • A heartwarming and sentimental family drama that resonated with audiences.
  • The film's depiction of the post-Civil War South, while romanticized, provided a backdrop for a compelling family reconciliation story.

Google audience: Audience reception for 'The Little Colonel' is largely positive, with many viewers recalling its charm and the iconic performances of Shirley Temple. It's often remembered as a classic family film that provided wholesome entertainment.

Fun Fact

The film is notable for breaking the Hollywood color line, as it featured Bill 'Bojangles' Robinson as Shirley Temple's tap-dancing instructor, marking one of the first times a Black actor had a prominent, non-stereotypical role alongside a white star in a major studio film.

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