I first saw this film when I was 6 years old (I'm 49 now) and it stayed with me since then. The special effects are so good that I REALLY believed that the "little people" existed.(I also love Walt Disneys acknowledgement in the credits, thanking the "wee folk" for their cooperation in making the film). I still watch the film (usually around St.Patricks day) and after 43 years it still delights me. The story is short sweet and to the point, the acting wonderful, especially Albert Sharpe, Janet Munro and a very young Sean Connery(who sings very nicely), and Robert Stevensons' direction is right on the money. The later scenes, with the death carriage and the banshees scared me silly as a child and are still quite creepy. This is a film that holds up extraordinarily well and is terrific for family viewing. I have a copy on laser disc but look foward to its eventual release on DVD.
87 Reviews
Generally shies away from treacle...and Albert Sharpe is wonderful
moonspinner5525 July 2004
Until "Mary Poppins" came along, I don't think Hollywood took Walt Disney seriously as a live-action movie producer. James Baskett received a special Oscar for "Song of the South", as did Hayley Mills in 1960 for "Pollyanna". However a great many performances in Walt's early output deserved a more substantial recognition, such as James Robertson Justice in "The Sword and the Rose" and Albert Sharpe in this film. Playing storytelling Irish codger Darby O'Gill, Sharpe is charming spinning tall tales in a quaint village, capturing himself a real live leprechaun and being rewarded with three wishes before the little King is freed. Colorful outing for older children and nostalgic adults, relying less on sugary sentiment and doting tots than on old-fashioned whimsy. Sean Connery has a nice romance with Janet Munro (who is always a pleasure) and the special effects, particularly near the end, are quite marvelous. **1/2 from ****
A Pleasant, Feel-Good Film With A Touch Of The Old Blarney
ccthemovieman-13 August 2008
Boy, this is about as Irish as it gets: accents, terminology that is foreign to most other people but fun to hear, leprechauns, pots of gold, three wishes (no more), other magic, Irish jigs and a few songs, lush countryside with plenty of green.....and a lot of good-natured blarney. It's old-fashioned, innocent fun, with a love story thrown in the mix.
The latter involves a very young-looking Sean Connery. It's a shock to see him when he was in his late '20s, and even more of a shock to hear him sing, too! Three years later, Connery hit the jackpot (acting, not singing) playing James Bond in "Dr. No," and the rest is history.
In this Walt Disney film, he plays "Michael McBride" who winds up falling for "Katie O'Gill." The latter is played by Janet Munro, a pretty woman who had the opposite screen success of Connery. After staring in a few of these Disney movies in which she played wholesome girls, she did an about-face and played unhappy and edgy characters and that, it turned out, was a poor choice. Alocholism then led to the tragic misfortune of contracting a fatal illness which killed her at the age of 38.
The lead character, "Darby O'Gill," is played very convincingly by Albert Sharpe. He was definitely the "character" of the story.
This movie is a nice, feel-good film filled with a laughing horse, the good guys winning over the bad, a few dramatic moments, singing and dancing "little people," and an assortment of Irish delights. I think kids would still like this film, even though it's dated with the special-effects, but that's to be expected. After all, the film is almost 50 years old. It has a pleasant feel to it and should still entertain folks today.
The latter involves a very young-looking Sean Connery. It's a shock to see him when he was in his late '20s, and even more of a shock to hear him sing, too! Three years later, Connery hit the jackpot (acting, not singing) playing James Bond in "Dr. No," and the rest is history.
In this Walt Disney film, he plays "Michael McBride" who winds up falling for "Katie O'Gill." The latter is played by Janet Munro, a pretty woman who had the opposite screen success of Connery. After staring in a few of these Disney movies in which she played wholesome girls, she did an about-face and played unhappy and edgy characters and that, it turned out, was a poor choice. Alocholism then led to the tragic misfortune of contracting a fatal illness which killed her at the age of 38.
The lead character, "Darby O'Gill," is played very convincingly by Albert Sharpe. He was definitely the "character" of the story.
This movie is a nice, feel-good film filled with a laughing horse, the good guys winning over the bad, a few dramatic moments, singing and dancing "little people," and an assortment of Irish delights. I think kids would still like this film, even though it's dated with the special-effects, but that's to be expected. After all, the film is almost 50 years old. It has a pleasant feel to it and should still entertain folks today.
One of the greatest Disney films ever made
jeffrey-gilchrist12 September 2004
Like "The Wizard of Oz", this is one of those movies that transcends time itself. It is a true family movie that will never go out of style. One of my favorite scenes in this movie is the approach of the Death Coach, coming to claim his sick daughter. Having no where else to turn, the hysterically-frightened Darby calls for his old friendly nemesis, King Brian. See if you feel the same sense of relief at his appearance as I did!
This movie covers the entire spectrum of emotions. It's sad, funny, scary, happy, you name it. You might want to shield the arrival of the Banshee from the little ones, as I remember how it frightened me at that age, but don't let that sway you from watching this masterpiece.
This movie covers the entire spectrum of emotions. It's sad, funny, scary, happy, you name it. You might want to shield the arrival of the Banshee from the little ones, as I remember how it frightened me at that age, but don't let that sway you from watching this masterpiece.
Those Tricky Little People
bkoganbing19 December 2006
As a lad I well remember the kind of campaigns Walt Disney used to publicize his films. He used all the available outlets he had such as his Mickey Mouse Club show or the Walt Disney Wonderful World of Color television shows. If Walt Disney could have worked it out, he'd have plugged Darby O'Gill and the Little People on Zorro.
I remember Disney on one of his shows having a formal meeting with King Brian of Knocknasheega to sign over screen rights to the story of the leprechauns. It was all done with a kind of serious pomp that would impress a kid with Disney and Jimmy O'Dea who played the leprechaun king, Brian Conners.
According to the Films of Walt Disney by Leonard Maltin, Disney had it in mind to do an Irish story for over 15 years before Darby O'Gill was released. In fact when he saw the original Broadway production of Finian's Rainbow, he had his leading man in mind in the person of Albert Sharpe.
Sharpe's Darby O'Gill is a gamekeeper on the grounds of Lord Fitzpatrick who in his declining years spends more time at the local pub, regaling the patrons with his tales of encounters with the leprechauns. As Walter Fitzgerald who plays Lord Fitzpatrick says, Darby retired a couple of years ago without telling me. So he's hired himself a young new gamekeeper, an outsider from Dublin named Michael McBride played by a pre-James Bond Sean Connery.
Connery's a decent chap though and he'll give Sharpe time enough to vacate the gamekeeper's gate cottage. Besides Connery's taken a liking to Darby's daughter Katie in the person of winsome Janet Munro.
The film alternates and then blends the story of Connery's courtship of Munro with the person of her other suitor, the town bully played by Kieron Moore and Sharpe's adventures with the leprechauns. King Brian tricks him a couple of times, but Darby captures him by getting him drunk and keeping him out until daylight when he has no powers.
If Darby O'Gill had been made by someone other than Disney probably Barry Fitzgerald would have played Darby. Sharpe certainly has the elfin charm of Fitzgerald's Michaeleen O'Flynn from The Quiet Man. And because he was not a movie name, he worked a lot cheaper for Disney, always a consideration in The Magic Kingdom.
The special effects are really good here considering this was the age before computer generated graphics. Enough to give even a twelve year old a fright with the appearance of the banshee and the costa bower, the death coach.
The answer to a movie trivia question is this film if it is ever asked whether Sean Connery sang in a movie. It's in fact him singing, My Little Irish Girl, both he and Janet Munro sing it alone and duet it for the finale. No dubbing, in fact Sean Connery cut a 45 rpm record of it back in the day. Probably worth a fortune if you could find one.
Janet Munro did a few films for Disney. She was a wholesome lass in his films, very appealing and her death at too young and age was a real tragedy. Either Disney didn't spot anything in Sean Connery or Connery was too smart to be tied down to a long term contract to that studio. Connery after Dr. No premiered spent the next dozen years or so trying to prove both artistically and financially that he was capable of more than James Bond.
But it sure would be fascinating to speculate on what turn Sean Connery's career would have taken if I had starred in a half a dozen or so Disney features. Can you imagine him trying to escape that kind of typecasting?
Darby O'Gill and the Little People is a children's film and I think it still has charm a-plenty even for today's generation who might be skeptical about leprechauns.
I remember Disney on one of his shows having a formal meeting with King Brian of Knocknasheega to sign over screen rights to the story of the leprechauns. It was all done with a kind of serious pomp that would impress a kid with Disney and Jimmy O'Dea who played the leprechaun king, Brian Conners.
According to the Films of Walt Disney by Leonard Maltin, Disney had it in mind to do an Irish story for over 15 years before Darby O'Gill was released. In fact when he saw the original Broadway production of Finian's Rainbow, he had his leading man in mind in the person of Albert Sharpe.
Sharpe's Darby O'Gill is a gamekeeper on the grounds of Lord Fitzpatrick who in his declining years spends more time at the local pub, regaling the patrons with his tales of encounters with the leprechauns. As Walter Fitzgerald who plays Lord Fitzpatrick says, Darby retired a couple of years ago without telling me. So he's hired himself a young new gamekeeper, an outsider from Dublin named Michael McBride played by a pre-James Bond Sean Connery.
Connery's a decent chap though and he'll give Sharpe time enough to vacate the gamekeeper's gate cottage. Besides Connery's taken a liking to Darby's daughter Katie in the person of winsome Janet Munro.
The film alternates and then blends the story of Connery's courtship of Munro with the person of her other suitor, the town bully played by Kieron Moore and Sharpe's adventures with the leprechauns. King Brian tricks him a couple of times, but Darby captures him by getting him drunk and keeping him out until daylight when he has no powers.
If Darby O'Gill had been made by someone other than Disney probably Barry Fitzgerald would have played Darby. Sharpe certainly has the elfin charm of Fitzgerald's Michaeleen O'Flynn from The Quiet Man. And because he was not a movie name, he worked a lot cheaper for Disney, always a consideration in The Magic Kingdom.
The special effects are really good here considering this was the age before computer generated graphics. Enough to give even a twelve year old a fright with the appearance of the banshee and the costa bower, the death coach.
The answer to a movie trivia question is this film if it is ever asked whether Sean Connery sang in a movie. It's in fact him singing, My Little Irish Girl, both he and Janet Munro sing it alone and duet it for the finale. No dubbing, in fact Sean Connery cut a 45 rpm record of it back in the day. Probably worth a fortune if you could find one.
Janet Munro did a few films for Disney. She was a wholesome lass in his films, very appealing and her death at too young and age was a real tragedy. Either Disney didn't spot anything in Sean Connery or Connery was too smart to be tied down to a long term contract to that studio. Connery after Dr. No premiered spent the next dozen years or so trying to prove both artistically and financially that he was capable of more than James Bond.
But it sure would be fascinating to speculate on what turn Sean Connery's career would have taken if I had starred in a half a dozen or so Disney features. Can you imagine him trying to escape that kind of typecasting?
Darby O'Gill and the Little People is a children's film and I think it still has charm a-plenty even for today's generation who might be skeptical about leprechauns.
Memorable
Rosabel27 October 2002
I saw this movie on TV as a child, and the scenes of the banshee and the death coach scared and impressed me so much, I carried the memory of them all my life. When I was an adult and saw it on video, I was astonished to find that the scenes are STILL impressive and creepy! Considering how sophisticated special effects have become since 'Darby O'Gill' was made in 1959, that's quite a tribute to the moviemaking skills of the day. The scenery is lovely, the actors skilful and wholeheartedly into their work, the music catchy and delightful, and really there's nothing not to like in this movie. The duels between Darby and his nemesis, King Brian, are wonderfully funny, as each tries to outsmart the other. The village characters are all well-drawn and likeable personalities. Pony Sugrue seems more 'American' than the others, but then, he's not supposed really to fit in in the village, and his punishment at the end is an enjoyable comeuppance. Favourite scenes - the banshee and death coach at the end, as mentioned, and all the leprechauns dancing under the fairy mountain then riding their little white horses out into the night as Darby plays them a wild tune on his fiddle. Don't be put off by the date on this movie; it's as good now as the day it was made.
Shimmering Irish Fantasy
wes-connors12 September 2009
In old Ireland, grandfatherly Albert Sharpe (as Darby O'Gill) is going to be replaced as castle caretaker, due to his advancing years. Instead of keeping the castle grounds tidy, Mr. Sharpe tells pub tales about his encounter with the "little people." Lord of the manor Walter Fitzgerald arrives from Dublin with young and sexy Sean Connery (as Michael McBride), to replace his retiring handyman. While Mr. Connery exchanges come-hither looks with Sharpe's pretty young daughter, Janet Munro (as Katie O'Gill), the old man plots to receive his "three wishes" from Leprechaun king Jimmy O'Dea (as Brian Connors).
While Walt Disney's animated films consistently looked state-of-the-art, some of his studio's 1950s "live action" features looked a bit cheap - not so with "Darby O'Gill and the Little People". The "Special Photographic Effects" by Peter Ellenshaw and Eustace Lycett and "Animation Effects" by Joshua Meador are excellent. Director Robert Stevenson and Technicolor photographer Winton C. Hoch compliment their efforts. Witchy Estelle Winwood (as Sheelah Sugrue) and no-good son Kieron Moore (as Pony) offer fine support. The story doesn't know whether to be glossy children's fare, or dark fantasy. With its emphasis on the latter, the last act is especially memorable. The "Banshee" and "death coach" aren't too original, but they are very nicely done.
******* Darby O'Gill and the Little People (6/24/59) Robert Stevenson ~ Albert Sharpe, Janet Munro, Sean Connery, Jimmy O'Dea
While Walt Disney's animated films consistently looked state-of-the-art, some of his studio's 1950s "live action" features looked a bit cheap - not so with "Darby O'Gill and the Little People". The "Special Photographic Effects" by Peter Ellenshaw and Eustace Lycett and "Animation Effects" by Joshua Meador are excellent. Director Robert Stevenson and Technicolor photographer Winton C. Hoch compliment their efforts. Witchy Estelle Winwood (as Sheelah Sugrue) and no-good son Kieron Moore (as Pony) offer fine support. The story doesn't know whether to be glossy children's fare, or dark fantasy. With its emphasis on the latter, the last act is especially memorable. The "Banshee" and "death coach" aren't too original, but they are very nicely done.
******* Darby O'Gill and the Little People (6/24/59) Robert Stevenson ~ Albert Sharpe, Janet Munro, Sean Connery, Jimmy O'Dea
Here's to Darby O'Gill
someguy88910 June 2004
I do not know how much I would like this movie if I saw it today for the first time. But, since I grew up on this movie, I have no choice but to absolutely love it. We had this videocassette in our closet for years, it didn't have a cover on it, but it didn't need one. Wow, how I grew up on those colorful special effects. Those leprechauns riding small white horses around an old Irish man playing the fiddle. The horse turning silvery when enchanted by the leprechauns. The Banshee. Oh, that Banshee. You've never seen a scarier Banshee on film and you never will. A fantastic movie. A young Sean Connery is in it, and that old woman with that scary voice is fantastic. And Darby O'Gill...ahh.. one of the best family films and fantasy movies out there. ANd don't forget the scary, black creativity of the Death Cab.
Here's to Darby O'Gill. Clink
My grade: 9/10
Here's to Darby O'Gill. Clink
My grade: 9/10
007 sings
SnoopyStyle25 June 2021
Katie O'Gill is a young single woman in a small Irish town. She is pursued by the arrogant Pony Sugrue. Her father Darby O'Gill spends his days drinking at the pub and telling his story of catching the leprechaun King Brian. He was granted three wishes but tricked into making a fourth which reversed all his wishes. Lord Fitzpatrick is replacing Darby with Michael McBride (Sean Connery) from Dublin.
This is a fun little live-action Disney movie with Irish folklore. It's pre-007 Sean Connery and he sings. This is early Disney. A bit later would have kids be the leads in this movie. This is begging to be a kids movie. As it stands, the romance is fairly straight forward. Sean Connery is a natural leading man as the world was soon to find out. I would suggest showing the death stagecoach in the first act before revealing it in the last act. That is a powerful emotional climax for the movie. All in all, this is gentle family fun and has a young Sean Connery in his late 20's.
This is a fun little live-action Disney movie with Irish folklore. It's pre-007 Sean Connery and he sings. This is early Disney. A bit later would have kids be the leads in this movie. This is begging to be a kids movie. As it stands, the romance is fairly straight forward. Sean Connery is a natural leading man as the world was soon to find out. I would suggest showing the death stagecoach in the first act before revealing it in the last act. That is a powerful emotional climax for the movie. All in all, this is gentle family fun and has a young Sean Connery in his late 20's.
Make a wish
Spirit_of_731 January 2005
This is a truly enchanting film for all ages. It takes the viewer to the small Irish village of Rushcullen in County Kerry where not much happens except to one person, Darby O'Gill.
Darby is a lovable old caretaker for the local Lord of the Manor whom the Lord jokes retired years ago but never told anyone. Darby's wanderings up to the ruins above the village have led him into contact with the 'little people' ruled by the likable but cunning King Brian.
The battle of wits between Darby and King Brian are the central theme running through the film but the subplots surrounding Darby's beautiful daughter Katie (played by the English actress Janet Munro who tragically died at only 38) and the competition between her suitor's, Sean Connery and Kieron Moore keep the older viewers interest. Add to this a bit of drama surrounding a death carriage and a scary banshee and you have a film which works on even more levels.
This is something of a forgotten gem of the family film genre. With tales of leprechaun's and banshee's all told through the wonderful west coast brogue, it doesn't fail to captivate.
It's somewhat idealised version of Irish life in the 1920's is also a delight. Okay, not all Irish people lived in thatched cottages, tipped their caps to the local priest or went to the pub to catch up on the craig, but a lot did.
As family films go this is right up there with Mary Poppins and The Lion King, 10 out of 10.
Darby is a lovable old caretaker for the local Lord of the Manor whom the Lord jokes retired years ago but never told anyone. Darby's wanderings up to the ruins above the village have led him into contact with the 'little people' ruled by the likable but cunning King Brian.
The battle of wits between Darby and King Brian are the central theme running through the film but the subplots surrounding Darby's beautiful daughter Katie (played by the English actress Janet Munro who tragically died at only 38) and the competition between her suitor's, Sean Connery and Kieron Moore keep the older viewers interest. Add to this a bit of drama surrounding a death carriage and a scary banshee and you have a film which works on even more levels.
This is something of a forgotten gem of the family film genre. With tales of leprechaun's and banshee's all told through the wonderful west coast brogue, it doesn't fail to captivate.
It's somewhat idealised version of Irish life in the 1920's is also a delight. Okay, not all Irish people lived in thatched cottages, tipped their caps to the local priest or went to the pub to catch up on the craig, but a lot did.
As family films go this is right up there with Mary Poppins and The Lion King, 10 out of 10.
Wonderful film
grahamsj34 January 2005
This is a film that my Mom took me to see way back in 1959 and I recall it still. It is a greatly entertaining film dealing with leprechauns. Obviously it's set in Ireland. Look for a very young Sean Connery in this. This was several years before James Bond. The film stars Albert Sharp and Janet Munro also. There is music, magic, leprechauns and all sorts of legends involved. There are really decent special effects, especially considering this was before computer generated characters and backgrounds. All the work had to be done by hand back in the old days! I just recall the film seeming very exciting, magical and overall a lot of fun for a 12-year old boy. This was adventure at it's finest (unless you could catch an Errol Flynn flick!) and was memorable.
Unanimously a favourite
bigdinosaur8 July 2005
Upon reading comments of earlier reviewers of this title, I find myself in an unusual situation...I totally agree with them all! This is a wonderful movie. And excellent for all ages (except maybe for very small children due to the banshee scenes).
I'm very impressed with the effects considering when this was made. Almost flawless! And the story is so delightful and engaging, I can't imagine anyone not getting a lift from this hour-and-a-half of leprechaun fantasy.
Sean Connery is a little weak on the singing, but it certainly doesn't detract from the movie.
I've had this movie on VHS since way back, but recently I upgraded to a DVD. There are some interesting supplemental items on the DVD: Including a 'making-of' that explain the effects; And there is a "Wonderful World of Disney" excerpt with Darby O'Gill, King Brian, & Walt Disney that's cute.
I was surprised how much my teenage boys liked this movie. Usually they are too 'cool' to watch 'kids' movies (as they call them). And they were stodgy at first, but soon they were totally enrapt.
This is one of the best family movies I've seen. Get this one and hold onto it because they just don't make em like this anymore.
I'm very impressed with the effects considering when this was made. Almost flawless! And the story is so delightful and engaging, I can't imagine anyone not getting a lift from this hour-and-a-half of leprechaun fantasy.
Sean Connery is a little weak on the singing, but it certainly doesn't detract from the movie.
I've had this movie on VHS since way back, but recently I upgraded to a DVD. There are some interesting supplemental items on the DVD: Including a 'making-of' that explain the effects; And there is a "Wonderful World of Disney" excerpt with Darby O'Gill, King Brian, & Walt Disney that's cute.
I was surprised how much my teenage boys liked this movie. Usually they are too 'cool' to watch 'kids' movies (as they call them). And they were stodgy at first, but soon they were totally enrapt.
This is one of the best family movies I've seen. Get this one and hold onto it because they just don't make em like this anymore.
Old geezer and half pints romp in fantasy land
helpless_dancer24 February 2001
Good special effects and a lively story kept this movie kicking right along. I liked the mischievous, drunken, but kindly old fairy king the best. What a scalawag! He and the boozy old caretaker were a riot with their give and take verbal pokes at one another. And the Death Coach....creepy! This would be a good one for the kids to see.
The Big People and The Little People
strong-122-47888531 March 2018
Ah, yes! - The luck of the Irish, their curios superstitions, their wee, magical leprechauns, and (get this!) a Scottish Sean Connery being passed off as an Irishman (all rolled up into one movie).
Though this 1959 Fantasy/Romance/Comedy film from Disney Studios was far from being top-notch entertainment - It was certainly notable for starring a young and very virile-looking Sean Connery (3 years before he first starred as James Bond in 1962's "Dr. No").
Anyway - Besides Connery's appearance in this decidedly quirky picture - I also thought that the "little people" pre-CG effects were actually quite impressive, considering that this film is now 60 years old.
All-in-all - I'd say that "Darby O'Gill" (and all of its merry, Irish shenanigans) was definitely well-worth a view, in the long run.
Though this 1959 Fantasy/Romance/Comedy film from Disney Studios was far from being top-notch entertainment - It was certainly notable for starring a young and very virile-looking Sean Connery (3 years before he first starred as James Bond in 1962's "Dr. No").
Anyway - Besides Connery's appearance in this decidedly quirky picture - I also thought that the "little people" pre-CG effects were actually quite impressive, considering that this film is now 60 years old.
All-in-all - I'd say that "Darby O'Gill" (and all of its merry, Irish shenanigans) was definitely well-worth a view, in the long run.
It has something for everyone, from love to Leprechauns!
E.Bola14 January 1999
I first remember seeing this film when I was about 5 years old, and although I've seen it countless times since, its magic and appeal has remained.
The story revolves around the lives of Darby O'Gill, the aging groundsman of Lord Fitzpatricks summer house, his daughter Katy and Michael McBride, the young replacement for Darby's job.
As well as this, on the supernatural front, there is also Darby's friendship with the wily King Brian of Knocknasheega, king of the Leprechauns (the little people), who live in the mountain near the village. There is also, on a more sinister note ,the banshee and the death coach, as well as the more earthly villain, Pony Sugrue, the local bully.
This is a lovely little story full of lilting music,Irish folk tales, humour, (mild) horror, a love story and some of the best special effects I've seen in a movie. Given that this movie was made 40 years ago, the special effects used for the little people- giant sets and trick photography, are GREAT!
There is very little, in fact that this movie does not contain. It is a delight for all the family and will continue to delight for years to come.
The story revolves around the lives of Darby O'Gill, the aging groundsman of Lord Fitzpatricks summer house, his daughter Katy and Michael McBride, the young replacement for Darby's job.
As well as this, on the supernatural front, there is also Darby's friendship with the wily King Brian of Knocknasheega, king of the Leprechauns (the little people), who live in the mountain near the village. There is also, on a more sinister note ,the banshee and the death coach, as well as the more earthly villain, Pony Sugrue, the local bully.
This is a lovely little story full of lilting music,Irish folk tales, humour, (mild) horror, a love story and some of the best special effects I've seen in a movie. Given that this movie was made 40 years ago, the special effects used for the little people- giant sets and trick photography, are GREAT!
There is very little, in fact that this movie does not contain. It is a delight for all the family and will continue to delight for years to come.
Meet The Happy-Go-Lucky Little People of Knocknasheega
StrictlyConfidential30 May 2020
When it comes to reviewing "Darby O'Gill and The Little People" - I think it's pretty difficult to avoid at least mentioning the fact that actor, Sean Connery (looking as virile as ever) played a notable part in the story.
Directed by Robert Stevenson - This Fantasy/Adventure/Romance tale of Irish superstitions and, yes, leprechauns was actually a fairly entertaining picture (for the most part).
And, on top of that - When it came to the pre-CGI "little people" effects - I found them to be quite impressive considering that this Disney production is now 60+ years old.
All-in-all - I'd definitely say that "Darby O'Gill And The Little People" was at least worth a view.
Directed by Robert Stevenson - This Fantasy/Adventure/Romance tale of Irish superstitions and, yes, leprechauns was actually a fairly entertaining picture (for the most part).
And, on top of that - When it came to the pre-CGI "little people" effects - I found them to be quite impressive considering that this Disney production is now 60+ years old.
All-in-all - I'd definitely say that "Darby O'Gill And The Little People" was at least worth a view.
It's just lovely.
hitchcockthelegend9 November 2008
Darby O'Gill is well known for his fantastical stories, he is also known as the man who is constantly seeking the pot of gold he believes exists. When one day Darby tells all in the Inn that he has found the pot of gold, nobody of course pays him much heed, they are further aghast when Darby tells of a Leprechaun King called Brian, and how he tricked Darby out of his three wishes.
Fantastical romp that is cloaked by Irish mystical folklore, what's not to like really? It's a delightful tale told with intuitive pacing and containing wonderful special effects. Once Darby (Albert Sharp) enters the magical world of the leprechaun's, we are witness to gorgeous colour and jaunty shenanigans as director Robert Stevenson and his team unleash the tricks of the trade. Based on the Darby O'Gill stories written by H.T. Kavanagh, this production was something that Walt Disney had wanted to make for many many years, even visiting Ireland in 1948 to research for the project. Disney's wait was worth it for it oozes Disneys renowned production values and delivers entertainment for children and adults alike.
Joining the splendid Sharpe in the cast is the excellent Jimmy O'Dea as King Brian, Janet Munro as Katie, and a youthful Sean Connery as Michael McBride, all of which are in on the fun and all lighting up the tale with consummate ease. I defy anyone to not be tapping their feet for most of this picture! So go grab all the family and park yourselves in front of the TV and let the magic wash over you: for it will, to be sure to be sure. 8/10
Fantastical romp that is cloaked by Irish mystical folklore, what's not to like really? It's a delightful tale told with intuitive pacing and containing wonderful special effects. Once Darby (Albert Sharp) enters the magical world of the leprechaun's, we are witness to gorgeous colour and jaunty shenanigans as director Robert Stevenson and his team unleash the tricks of the trade. Based on the Darby O'Gill stories written by H.T. Kavanagh, this production was something that Walt Disney had wanted to make for many many years, even visiting Ireland in 1948 to research for the project. Disney's wait was worth it for it oozes Disneys renowned production values and delivers entertainment for children and adults alike.
Joining the splendid Sharpe in the cast is the excellent Jimmy O'Dea as King Brian, Janet Munro as Katie, and a youthful Sean Connery as Michael McBride, all of which are in on the fun and all lighting up the tale with consummate ease. I defy anyone to not be tapping their feet for most of this picture! So go grab all the family and park yourselves in front of the TV and let the magic wash over you: for it will, to be sure to be sure. 8/10
"Wish for happiness then!" "Human beings need bitter with the sweet."
dabrygo18 March 2023
Warning: Spoilers
Several movies we saw at Mom's mom's house had a scene that traumatized me as a child. The revealing of Judge Doom in "Who Framed Roger Rabbit," a furnace scene in "The Brave Little Toaster," and another furnace scene in "Home Alone." The scene from "Darby O'Gill and the Little People" that took its toll on my impressionable little mind was the one with the Banshee. Even watching it now, the ghostly apparition visual effect and the shrieking are still very spooky. This movie has a distinction that none of the others do: I think that I've only ever watched it the once. At least, I think it's because of the Banshee... it could be because of the accents. Captions are a real lifesaver in this one!
While the accents are sometimes hard to decipher, the story is easy enough to follow. On an errand, down-on-his-luck ne'er-do-well Darby O'Gill encounters Brian Connor, King of the Leprechauns. Having spoiled his chances for three wishes earlier by being greedy, Darby gets a second chance to ask King Brian for three more wishes, which Darby uses more cautiously this time around. Darby's final wish is so well done, it makes the movie feel like an O. Henry story; at other times, it feels more like a folk tale.
A little familiarity with Irish superstitions may help when watching this movie. From the movie alone I felt I had a good sense of what a leprechaun was, but the Banshee and the Death Carriage at the end felt a little rushed, like they needed more explanation.
This movie, like Grandma's other movies, may not be very well described as "sugarcoated," depicting life as a "bowl of cherries." But they do also tend to show that hardships in life are accompanied by joys. Nice, well-rounded feel-good romantic fantasy movie!
While the accents are sometimes hard to decipher, the story is easy enough to follow. On an errand, down-on-his-luck ne'er-do-well Darby O'Gill encounters Brian Connor, King of the Leprechauns. Having spoiled his chances for three wishes earlier by being greedy, Darby gets a second chance to ask King Brian for three more wishes, which Darby uses more cautiously this time around. Darby's final wish is so well done, it makes the movie feel like an O. Henry story; at other times, it feels more like a folk tale.
A little familiarity with Irish superstitions may help when watching this movie. From the movie alone I felt I had a good sense of what a leprechaun was, but the Banshee and the Death Carriage at the end felt a little rushed, like they needed more explanation.
This movie, like Grandma's other movies, may not be very well described as "sugarcoated," depicting life as a "bowl of cherries." But they do also tend to show that hardships in life are accompanied by joys. Nice, well-rounded feel-good romantic fantasy movie!
A Beautiful and Witty Little Movie
v_haritha_in11 August 2014
I will begin by saying that I do not know anything about Irish lore and hence cannot tell how accurate this movie is in its portrayal. What I can tell is, it is a charming piece of work. Darby O'Gill (Albert Sharpe)is an old caretaker in a small village. Though he is too old to do his job effectively, he is well beloved by the village folk, to whom he tells stories of his encounters with the King of leprechauns(Jimmy O'Dea).
Darby and King Brian are friendly yet are constantly trying to out-fox each other. Their bromance is the best part of the movie. There is another story running in parallel: the romance between Darby's daughter, Katie (Janet Munro) and the new caretaker, Michael McBride (a then unknown Sean Connery). Katie has one of the sweetest smiles in movie history and we discover Sean Connery's singing voice. Estelle Winwood plays a devious widow and Kieron Moore plays her son, a local ruffian and Connery's rival in love. They are both extremely entertaining.
The sets and the locations are beautiful and full of old-fashioned charm. The effects are pretty good and most of them hold up even by today's standards. The banshee and the death coach are really scary. This is an under-appreciated Disney gem.
Darby and King Brian are friendly yet are constantly trying to out-fox each other. Their bromance is the best part of the movie. There is another story running in parallel: the romance between Darby's daughter, Katie (Janet Munro) and the new caretaker, Michael McBride (a then unknown Sean Connery). Katie has one of the sweetest smiles in movie history and we discover Sean Connery's singing voice. Estelle Winwood plays a devious widow and Kieron Moore plays her son, a local ruffian and Connery's rival in love. They are both extremely entertaining.
The sets and the locations are beautiful and full of old-fashioned charm. The effects are pretty good and most of them hold up even by today's standards. The banshee and the death coach are really scary. This is an under-appreciated Disney gem.
Walt Disney Brings One More Nostalgia through Darby O'Gill's fantasy tales, as Albert Sharpe makes it memorable
SAMTHEBESTEST13 August 2023
Darby O'Gill And The Little People (1959) :
Brief Review -
Walt Disney Brings One More Nostalgia through Darby O'Gill's fantasy tales, as Albert Sharpe makes it memorable. The old Disney films have some magic, not just cinematic appeal. Right from early movies like Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs (1937) and "Pinocchio" (1940) to many other fantasy movies in the next two decades, Disney took us to an amusement park much before it was planned. Darby O'Gill's short stories by H. T. Kavanagh were known and loved by readers way back in time, but bridging a cinematic version of several stories was really difficult. Darby O'Gill And The Little People did a fine job of doing so, but nothing great or extraordinary. What makes it memorable is the nostalgia and Albert Sharpe's portrayal of Darby. Apart from these two things, you'll hardly find anything worthy enough to be remembered-well, that's in my personal opinion. The story takes us to a small Irish town where Darby and his daughter, Katie, are living happily. Darby is famous in town for telling stories of his encounter with leprechauns and how he lost so much wealth he could have gotten from three wishes. The fourth wish trick of King Brian always fools Darby, and now he is trying to be smart. However, Darby has grown old and is about to lose his job and house. The new employee, Michael, starts falling for Katie, and Darby sees that he might make a wish after Katie's well-settled and happy. Will he be able to outsmart King Brian this time, or will Brian be the smartest buddy ever? In about 90 minutes, the film tells you a lot of things, and maybe that's why everything feels short and incomplete. Like I said, it's difficult to put so many shorts together in a feature film. So, it's not a big issue. Albert Sharpe's performance and Robert Stevenson's trademark entertainment make sure that you have a fun time and take home a few nostalgic moments.
RATING - 6.5/10*
By - #samthebestest.
Walt Disney Brings One More Nostalgia through Darby O'Gill's fantasy tales, as Albert Sharpe makes it memorable. The old Disney films have some magic, not just cinematic appeal. Right from early movies like Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs (1937) and "Pinocchio" (1940) to many other fantasy movies in the next two decades, Disney took us to an amusement park much before it was planned. Darby O'Gill's short stories by H. T. Kavanagh were known and loved by readers way back in time, but bridging a cinematic version of several stories was really difficult. Darby O'Gill And The Little People did a fine job of doing so, but nothing great or extraordinary. What makes it memorable is the nostalgia and Albert Sharpe's portrayal of Darby. Apart from these two things, you'll hardly find anything worthy enough to be remembered-well, that's in my personal opinion. The story takes us to a small Irish town where Darby and his daughter, Katie, are living happily. Darby is famous in town for telling stories of his encounter with leprechauns and how he lost so much wealth he could have gotten from three wishes. The fourth wish trick of King Brian always fools Darby, and now he is trying to be smart. However, Darby has grown old and is about to lose his job and house. The new employee, Michael, starts falling for Katie, and Darby sees that he might make a wish after Katie's well-settled and happy. Will he be able to outsmart King Brian this time, or will Brian be the smartest buddy ever? In about 90 minutes, the film tells you a lot of things, and maybe that's why everything feels short and incomplete. Like I said, it's difficult to put so many shorts together in a feature film. So, it's not a big issue. Albert Sharpe's performance and Robert Stevenson's trademark entertainment make sure that you have a fun time and take home a few nostalgic moments.
RATING - 6.5/10*
By - #samthebestest.
Who Needs CGI?
sharkey1973 April 2009
Certainly not Mr. Disney. I loved this film as a child and today saw it for the first time in maybe 25 years. I was astonished at how good the special effects were. The Little People were totally believable! The DVD had a wonderful making of which explained the forced perspective technique and showed exactly how it was done. It also finally cleared up any confusion on how matte painting is used and from a technical viewpoint, this film is remarkable. Disney always went the extra mile. That's why he was such a master of film making. I was also delighted with the accents and the use of real Gaelic terms and Irish expressions and could only wonder if they had confused me as a child until I read that this movie had had two soundtracks and one had been dubbed on after the accents were deemed too difficult for American audiences. Fortunately, the original is on the DVD. With captioning, it's not hard to follow at all. And how Disney, to have a rider where he "thanks" the leprechauns for helping him make this picture! Of course, the looked so real, you could actually believe it.
Worthy of a watch
r96sk14 June 2020
Despite a largely predictable story and leaving a feeling of meh throughout, 'Darby O'Gill and the Little People' does manage to leave marginally positive thoughts by its conclusion.
Albert Sharpe (Darby), Sean Connery (Michael) and Jimmy O'Dea (King Brian) all give good performances, as does Janet Munro (Katie) though her character is mostly underdeveloped. A strong main cast.
Elsewhere, I enjoy the music and dialogue. The premise is fine, nothing sensational but it gives a hearty message no doubt. The effects are more than decent, still looking satisfactory even by today's standards.
Simple, yet effective enough. Worthy of a watch.
Albert Sharpe (Darby), Sean Connery (Michael) and Jimmy O'Dea (King Brian) all give good performances, as does Janet Munro (Katie) though her character is mostly underdeveloped. A strong main cast.
Elsewhere, I enjoy the music and dialogue. The premise is fine, nothing sensational but it gives a hearty message no doubt. The effects are more than decent, still looking satisfactory even by today's standards.
Simple, yet effective enough. Worthy of a watch.
Quite enjoyable...and with a very touching ending.
planktonrules20 February 2020
As I sat and watched "Darby O'Gill and the Little People", I wondered what Irish people think of this sort of film. After all, it's filled with all sorts of Irish stereotypes....and this is a politically correct era. Regardless, the film is quite enjoyable and worth seeing....and considering it's a Disney live action movie, this surprised me a bit.
The title character is an elderly man who spends much of his time in the local pub telling all sort of ridiculous stories of Leprechauns and in particular, the Leprechaun king. However, you eventually learn that these fanciful stories are actually true...Darby CAN see them and has much contact with these little people. I could explain the plot much more...but it's just best you see the film for yourself.
This is a lovely film to watch and you wonder if this was a project particularly dear to Walt Disney's heart as it's so good in so many ways. Charming, enjoyable and sweetly sentimental, this film nearly earns a 9. Well worth seeing and fun.
The title character is an elderly man who spends much of his time in the local pub telling all sort of ridiculous stories of Leprechauns and in particular, the Leprechaun king. However, you eventually learn that these fanciful stories are actually true...Darby CAN see them and has much contact with these little people. I could explain the plot much more...but it's just best you see the film for yourself.
This is a lovely film to watch and you wonder if this was a project particularly dear to Walt Disney's heart as it's so good in so many ways. Charming, enjoyable and sweetly sentimental, this film nearly earns a 9. Well worth seeing and fun.
I hope my kids like it as much as I do.
cricketbat30 August 2018
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