Heidi

each adaptation is a provocation for viewer. because the shadow of reading is large and high. because the expectations are not little. in this case, all is at perfect place. Noley Thornton shines and Jason Robards is the best grandfather. and, like a good film, it is not exactly an adaptation but a translation not for the book but for its spirit. touching and immersive, fresh and lovely, it gives all gifts who was expected. and this is the key of this Heidy, more realistic than other versions, more close than a family film definition. because it is only a movie for children but , in same measure, for refreshing memories of parents. and the cast, especially ,the great Jason Robards, the smart screenplay writer and , sure, Michael Ray Rhodes makes a good and almost admirable work.

Johanna Spyri's two books "Heidi: Her Years of Wandering and Learning" and "Heidi: How She Used What She Learned" are among the best-known and best-selling children's books in the world. It is therefore crucial that the spirit of Heidi's novels is embraced. This series is a very free adaptation of the novel. I think Johanna Spyri would be surprised at what has been done with her story here. As a Swiss who is familiar with the mountain world, the Heidi novels and the various film adaptations, I think this is the worst adaptation I have ever seen. As a filmmaker, it's also clear to me that you have to adapt and dramatize things when adapting a novel. But this has been painfully unsuccessful here. I recommend Heidi (1978), which is a children's series co-produced in Germany, Austria and Switzerland with 26 parts from 1978. It is closely based on the novels and great importance was attached to a realistic portrayal of the living conditions at the time of the story. For me, it is the best and most detailed film adaptation of the story of Heidi. If you would like to see a more recent movie version of the Heidi story, I recommend the 2015 film tt700392, which, however, ignores the Christian-accented narrative elements of the original.

If your looking for a Family film that will appeal to all ages, then look no further. This movie is well acted, the scenery is beautiful and the score is outstanding. Noley Thornton is not to be missed! Once you see this movie, it will stay with you for the rest of your life. Even if you've seen other Heidi movies, don't let that stop you, this one ranks at the very top!

I've watched at least two of the other Heidi versions, and this is probably my favorite. I liked the Shirley Temple version a lot, too, but this one is very charming and Noley Thornton is very cute as Heidi. I watched an older version of Heidi today, and it was good as well (with Jean Simmons), but it was definately not as good as this one (though they both have their strong points).

I always find it interesting how one film can produce such a range of reviews. The reviews for this film, range from a beautifully acted, heartwarming film, suitable for all the family down to absolute rubbish, badly acted and not suitable for under 10's. I personally loved it. I haven't read the book although I am familiar with the story. I found the film moving and was well acted. OK, there are a mixture of accents in the film, but so what. Once you get into the story you wont even notice. For me this film, had the same sort of atmosphere as 'The Secret Garden'. A lovely story. Touching and heartwarming. The acting is good and the scenery magnificent. Watch it and make your own mind up. I am sure you wont be disappointed. Mike