Watch The Little Princess

The Little Princess is a beloved family movie from 1939, starring the legendary Shirley Temple as Sara Crewe, a little girl who must navigate through the challenges of life after her father goes missing in action during World War I. Directed by Walter Lang and based on the novel of the same name by Frances Hodgson Burnett, The Little Princess remains a timeless classic that has enchanted audiences for generations.

Set in England in the early 1900s, the movie follows Sara, an imaginative and well-bred little girl who is sent by her doting father, Captain Reginald Crewe (Ian Hunter), to a swanky girls' boarding school in London. The school is run by the friendly and caring Miss Minchin (Mary Nash), who instantly takes a liking to the charming and precocious Sara. Amidst all the new friendships and fun times, Sara's father is suddenly reported missing in action, leaving her penniless and alone in the school.

Miss Minchin, who had been enamored by Sara's wealth, treats her cruelly and forces her to work as a servant in the school in return for her education, under the pretense that Captain Crewe is unable to pay Sara's fees. Despite the difficult circumstances, Sara's indomitable spirit and optimism never waver, and she makes friends with the other servants and students, including the sweet and kindhearted Becky (Sybil Jason).

As Sara's fortunes take a turn for the worse, she faces countless trials and tribulations. However, her vivid imagination and unshakable belief that her father is alive keep her going in spite of all the hardships she endures. She becomes known as "The Little Princess" due to her resilience, her noble character, and her unwavering faith that someday she will be reunited with her father.

The Little Princess is, first and foremost, a gem of a movie that highlights Shirley Temple's undeniable talent as a child actor. She brings a pure, natural charm to the role of Sara, capturing the character's childlike wonder, innocence, and grace with ease. The movie's themes of perseverance, hope, and the power of imagination resonate with viewers of all ages, making it a timeless film that never loses its appeal.

In addition to Shirley Temple, the movie features a strong supporting cast that includes Richard Greene as the warm-hearted Indian soldier Ram Dass, who befriends Sara, and Anita Louise as the gentle, kind-hearted neighbor, Rose. The acting is superb all around, with each actor bringing depth and nuance to their performances that elevate the movie's emotional impact.

The Little Princess also boasts impressive production values that elevate the film to a level of elegance and sophistication that is unmatched in many family-friendly movies. The sets are lavish, the costumes are exquisite, and the cinematography is stunning, creating a lush tapestry that transports viewers back in time to a bygone era.

Ultimately, The Little Princess is a heartwarming movie that has stood the test of time, appealing to generations of audiences with its themes of love, hope, and resilience. Shirley Temple's performance is a standout, as she brings to life a character who remains one of the most beloved in children's literature. This film is a must-see for anyone looking for a classic family movie that will warm their heart and inspire their spirit.

The Little Princess is a 1939 comedy with a runtime of 1 hour and 31 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.1.