The Blue Bird
The Blue Bird
The Blue Bird
- G
- 1h 23m
- 1940
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Visually beautiful, full of imaginative sets, and splendidly photographed in rich Technicolor, this enchanting fantasy was Twentieth Century Fox's answer to "The Wizard of Oz". In a rare departure from her usual screen persona, Shirley plays a selfish, spoiled little girl named Mytyl, who doesn't appreciate her loving family. Only after a good fairy sends her and her brother (Johnny Russell) on a journey to find "the bird that means happiness" does she end up discovering happiness right in her own home.
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© 1940 Twentieth Century Fox Film Corporation.
Common Sense Media
Common Sense Says
Shirley Temple fantasy has some scares, outdated ideas.
What Parents Need to Know
Parents need to know that The Blue Bird is a departure from the typical adorable Shirley Temple movie, with a few scenes which may frighten younger or more sensitive kids: a suspenseful walk through a dark graveyard, and a raging storm with fire and lightning that threatens the heroes. One leading adult character (transformed from a cat) appears to be killed in the storm. The film, based on a play from 1910, includes some notions that may seem simplistic and old-fashioned by today's standards. One concept is that the dead (in this case two grandparents) depend upon the thoughts of their loved ones so that they can come to life for short periods. Another story component shows a community of children (all Caucasian) who live in the clouds as they wait to be born, sailing off to their expectant families in a magical sailboat.
A Lot or A Little?
The parents’ guide to what’s in this movie.
More on Common Sense Media
Additional Info
- Genre:Drama, Family
- Release Date:January 19, 1940
- Languages:English
- Captions:English
- Audio Format:Stereo
- Screen Pass Eligible:Yes
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