Watch Heidi

Heidi is a heartwarming adaptation of the classic novel by Johanna Spyri, directed by Alain Gsponer and released in 2015. The movie features a talented cast of Swiss actors, with Anuk Steffen in the leading role as Heidi, Anna Schinz as her aunt Dete, and Lilian Naef as Clara Sesemann. The story of Heidi takes place in the Swiss Alps, where young Heidi is forced to leave her grandfather's home to live with her aunt Dete in Frankfurt. However, once she arrives in the city, Heidi is miserable and longs to return to the mountains where she can roam freely and be with her beloved grandfather. When her aunt is called away to a job in Frankfurt, Heidi decides to make a daring escape and sets off on a journey back to the mountains.

Once Heidi returns to the mountains, she is welcomed back with open arms by her grandfather, a grumpy hermit who initially resented her presence but now can't imagine life without her. Heidi quickly adjusts to life in the mountains, making new friends and falling in love with the simple joys of rural life. However, trouble arises when her aunt Dete returns with plans to take Heidi away once again, this time to be the companion of a wealthy young girl named Clara Sesemann who is confined to a wheelchair.

At first, Heidi is hesitant to leave the mountains and her grandfather, but she realizes that she could use the opportunity to help her new friend Clara and broaden her horizons. Once she arrives at the Sesemann household, Heidi is initially overwhelmed by the luxurious surroundings and the tense atmosphere between Clara and her governess Fraulein Rottenmeier. However, she quickly becomes a source of comfort and hope for Clara, encouraging her to venture outside and showing her the beauty of nature.

Meanwhile, back in the Alps, Heidi's grandfather is ailing and missing his granddaughter terribly. Determined to bring her back to the mountains, he sets out on a journey to reclaim her. The finale of the movie sees all of the characters converging in a dramatic and emotional climax, as Heidi must choose between her old life in the mountains and her new life with Clara.

Heidi is a beautifully shot and acted adaptation of the classic novel, capturing the spirit and charm of the original story while adding some modern touches. The performances of the young actors, particularly Anuk Steffen as Heidi, are outstanding, conveying a genuine sense of wonder and innocence. The movie also has a strong sense of place, with the stunning Swiss Alps providing a breathtaking backdrop to the story.

One of the strengths of Heidi is the way it balances the simple pleasures of rural life with the more complex themes of family, friendship, and class. The movie presents a nuanced portrayal of the differences between city and country life, and the various characters' struggles with their own identities and desires. Despite some of the darker moments in the story, the movie is ultimately uplifting and inspiring, demonstrating the power of kindness and compassion.

Overall, Heidi is a must-see movie for fans of classic literature and anyone who appreciates a well-crafted and heartfelt story. The movie offers something for audiences of all ages, with its blend of humor, drama, and emotion. Whether you are familiar with the original novel or experiencing the story for the first time, Heidi is a movie that will touch your heart and leave you feeling uplifted.

Heidi is a 2015 adventure movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 51 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.4.