Pollyanna

Eleanor H. Porter's eternally optimistic "Pollyanna" (Elizabeth Archard) makes an earnest, faithful multi-hour English teleplay. But, faithful adaptations need to take the change of medium into consideration, and this production falters in following the novel rather laboriously. Its long, detailed establishment of characters and events results in some unnecessary dullness.

Note the more well-known versions: 1920's "Pollyanna" (Mary Pickford) translated very nicely into the silent film format, while 1960's "Pollyanna (Hayley Mills) added too much "sugar" (an unnecessary additive, considering this story). And, viewing too much of "Pollyanna" in one sitting is not for the faint of heart - you may want to start out with small doses.

Cheers to Ms. Archard and her young leading man, Stephen Galloway (as Jimmy Bean), as both demonstrate the presence and skill to have had more substantial acting careers. Slightly older Paddy Frost (as Nancy) and Robert Coleby (as Timothy) are also very engaging. Elaine Stritch (as Aunt Polly), Ray McAnally (as John Pendleton), and the location are also worth a look.

***** Pollyanna (10/7-11/11/73) June Wyndham-Davies ~ Elizabeth Archard, Elaine Stritch, Stephen Galloway

This version of Pollyanna is quite accurate -- unlike the Disney version. It is a charming story. However in this version Pollyanna 'gabbles' and is difficult to follow, for me at any rate. A good series spoiled by poor sound recording. The BBC ought to have known better.

Having seen the 1960 version with Hayley Mills and the later 2003 version with Georgina Terry I was looking forward to a different take on the story. In general I was not disappointed, the lead actress who I had never heard of was pretty adorable coupled with a great performance from Elaine Stritch perhaps best remembered by many in Britain for her roll in the TV comedy Two's Company. The one thing I feel let it down a little was the terrible American accents (I'm British), most of the cast being British,I don't know if it ever made it to the USA but I can imagine Americans finding them hilarious. Having said that ignore the accents and enjoy it.

I saw this BBC series in the 70's and recently bought the video package of the complete episodes. Pollyanna is like a breath of fresh air on a dark, dull and listless day, and she perks you up with her incessant chatter and "I AM glad...." lines. Her youthful exuberance slowly turns the dour grown-ups (like Aunt Polly and Mr Pendleton) into more lively and spontaneous adults. One of the best BBC productions, which I will cherish for years to come.