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Cast overview, first billed only: | |||
Emma Bolger | ... | Heidi | |
Max von Sydow | ... | Uncle Alp | |
Geraldine Chaplin | ... | Rottenmeier | |
Diana Rigg | ... | Grandmamma | |
Pauline McLynn | ... | Aunt Detie | |
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Sam Friend | ... | Peter |
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Jessica Claridge | ... | Clara |
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Del Synnott | ... | Sebastian |
Kellie Shirley | ... | Tinette | |
Robert Bathurst | ... | Mr. Sessemann | |
Oliver Ford Davies | ... | Dr. Classen | |
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Caroline Pegg | ... | Bridget |
Jessica James | ... | Grannie | |
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Alexander Main | ... | Frankfurt Boy |
Karl Johnson | ... | Old Man |
Swiss girl Adelheid "Heidi" (Emma Bolger) is orphaned young. Aunt Detie (Pauline McLynn) brings her to Uncle Alp (Max Von Sydow), who lives isolated in the Alps since his murder charge. Heidi soon takes to the wild country, especially accompanying young goat herder Peter (Sam Friend). Uncle Alp refuses to send her to school in the city, but Aunt Detie returns and forces him to give in. She's sent to a posh lady in Frankfurt, where she'll be a companion for crippled daughter Clara (Jessica Claridge) after school hours. Written by KGF Vissers
Overall this is our favorite version of Heidi in film. We purchased it and extra copies of the novel for gifts. Our family watched this movie anticipating the same cutesy antics and departures from the novel as before but were surprised to find this one quite close to the book. It is a bit more somber than the book in my view but this adds a real 19th century feel anyway. Emma Bolger plays Heidi with enough childlike charm, her shining eyes and sweet grin helped me forgive a few tiny flaws in her young acting. Max Von Sydow plays Grandfather immaculately with the right amount of grumpiness and compassion. The best performance I think is Del Synott as Sebastian the butler! The only thing I wish the director would have done differently is to spend more time on Heidi's enjoyment in the pastures. I recommend watching this movie then going back to the read the book once again if it has been awhile. It is a truly heartwarming story.