The story of Heidi has always been endearing to me and not just because I've always loved Shirley Temple movies: the messages are suitable for family viewing including kids of all abilities. For example, I've found with my own 5 kids it has been easier to let a movie impart some messages rather than expect them to learn from what I say.

One of the big messages seen in Heidi is to never give up when making an effort to achieve, as shown by Heidi encouraging the sickly girl, Klara, to really try to walk again. Lifelong I have been inspired to do my best just as Heidi did with Klara.

Another message for the kids to see in action is how Heidi cajoled the grandfather to smile again and socialize with the neighbors on the mountain and eventually in the village below in the valley. This showed me that a big dose of caring love can soften even the crustiness of a timeworn soul.

Does your family need to see sharing in action? Well, I was inspired that Heidi brought Klara up to the mountain to spend time with the Grandfather. She did not keep the Grandfather's love all for herself.

Now, about the movie. This is a colorized version of the original black and white, and though it does not look entirely natural, I like the enhanced colors - after all, it is a movie.

Another point I wish to make is that Heidi does a Dutch clog dance in wooden shoes as a cameo addition in the story. I think that is just adorable and if you want to see some good clogging it is worth the price just for that.

The main characters in the script are Heidi by Shirley Temple; the Grandfather by Jean Hersholt; Aunt Dede by Mady Christians; Fraulein Rottenmeier by Mary Nash; Klara Seseman by Marcia Mae Jones.

The basic story that holds all the drama and lessons is that Heidi's Aunt Dede sells her to Fraulein Rottenmeier in the city to be a companion to her charge, the sick child Klara. Heidi is homesick for the Grandfather and the mountain and eventually they are reunited in a way that is happy for Heidi, Klara and the Grandfather.

Highest recommendation!

Details - 88 minutes; 20th Century Fox, release date January 20, 2002; Director - Allan Dwan; Spoken English, subtitles English and Spanish, Region 1 - USA and Canada; Close-captioned; ASIN: B00005RT3T

Available from Amazon.com
Heidi with Shirley Temple - DVD

Heidi - VHS

Review by Susan Kramer