Heidi
19371h 28m Directed by Allan Dwan
★6.9
(108 votes)DramaFamilyMusic
Overview
Heidi is orphaned and her uncaring maternal Aunt Dete takes her to the mountains to live with her reclusive, grumpy paternal grandfather, Adolph Kramer. Heidi brings her grandfather back into mountain society through her sweet ways and sheer love. When Dete later returns and steals Heidi away to become the companion of a rich man's wheelchair-bound daughter, the grandfather is heartsick to discover his little girl missing and immediately sets out to get her back.

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CAST

Shirley Temple
Heidi Kramer

Jean Hersholt
Adolph Kramer

Delmar Watson
Peter

Marcia Mae Jones
Klara Sesemann

Arthur Treacher
Andrews

Helen Westley
Blind Anna

Thomas Beck
Pastor Schultz

Mary Nash
Fraulein Rottenmeier

Sidney Blackmer
Sesemann

Pauline Moore
Elsa
A Timeless Tale of Love and Redemption: "Heidi" Review
WatchListHQ•Sep 10, 2025
The 1937 film adaptation of Johanna Spyri's classic novel "Heidi" is a heartwarming and poignant tale of love, loss, and redemption, set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Swiss Alps. The movie tells the story of a young orphan girl, Heidi, who is taken to live with her reclusive grandfather in the mountains, and through her innocence and kindness, brings joy and companionship into his life. The film's simple yet powerful narrative is elevated by the outstanding performances of its cast, particularly Shirley Temple, who shines as the titular character, bringing a sense of vulnerability and charm to the role.
The movie's greatest strength lies in its ability to balance lighthearted moments of humor and joy with more serious themes of abandonment, loneliness, and the importance of human connection. The character of Adolph Kramer, Heidi's grandfather, is particularly well-developed, as his gruff exterior slowly gives way to a deep affection for his granddaughter. The film's pacing is well-balanced, moving seamlessly from moments of high drama to quieter, more introspective scenes, allowing the audience to fully invest in the characters and their stories. The movie's musical elements, including several memorable songs and dances, add to its charm, making it a delightful and entertaining watch for audiences of all ages.
Despite being released over 80 years ago, "Heidi" remains a timeless and universal tale, its themes and messages continuing to resonate with viewers today. The film's exploration of the importance of family, love, and belonging is both deeply moving and profoundly relevant, making it a must-see for anyone looking for a movie that will leave them feeling uplifted and inspired. While some of the film's production values may seem dated by modern standards, the movie's enduring charm and appeal are a testament to the power of its story and the talent of its cast and crew. Overall, "Heidi" is a beautiful and captivating film that is sure to delight audiences of all ages, and its enduring popularity is a testament to the timeless appeal of its story and characters.
The movie's greatest strength lies in its ability to balance lighthearted moments of humor and joy with more serious themes of abandonment, loneliness, and the importance of human connection. The character of Adolph Kramer, Heidi's grandfather, is particularly well-developed, as his gruff exterior slowly gives way to a deep affection for his granddaughter. The film's pacing is well-balanced, moving seamlessly from moments of high drama to quieter, more introspective scenes, allowing the audience to fully invest in the characters and their stories. The movie's musical elements, including several memorable songs and dances, add to its charm, making it a delightful and entertaining watch for audiences of all ages.
Despite being released over 80 years ago, "Heidi" remains a timeless and universal tale, its themes and messages continuing to resonate with viewers today. The film's exploration of the importance of family, love, and belonging is both deeply moving and profoundly relevant, making it a must-see for anyone looking for a movie that will leave them feeling uplifted and inspired. While some of the film's production values may seem dated by modern standards, the movie's enduring charm and appeal are a testament to the power of its story and the talent of its cast and crew. Overall, "Heidi" is a beautiful and captivating film that is sure to delight audiences of all ages, and its enduring popularity is a testament to the timeless appeal of its story and characters.
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