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The Little Colonel
Directed by David Butler
Produced by Buddy G. DeSylva
Written by Screenplay:
William M. Conselman
Novel:
Annie Fellows Johnston
Starring Shirley Temple
Lionel Barrymore
Evelyn Venable
John Lodge
Bill Robinson
Hattie McDaniel
Music by Cyril J. Mockridge
Cinematography Arthur C. Miller
Distributed by Fox Film
Release date(s) February 22, 1935 (1935-02-22)
Running time 80 minutes
Country United States
Language English
Money made $1.2 million

The Little Colonel is a classic movie from 1935. It tells the story of a young girl named Lloyd Sherman, played by the famous child star Shirley Temple. The film is known for its heartwarming story and especially for the amazing dance scenes between Shirley Temple and the legendary dancer Bill Robinson. It was directed by David Butler and is based on a popular book by Annie Fellows Johnston.

Meet the Cast: Who's in This Classic Film?

This movie features a talented group of actors who bring the story to life. Here are some of the main characters you'll see:

  • Shirley Temple plays Lloyd Sherman, a spirited young girl who moves to live with her grandfather.
  • Lionel Barrymore is Colonel Lloyd, Lloyd's strict but loving grandfather. He is Elizabeth's father.
  • John Lodge plays Jack Sherman, Lloyd's father and Elizabeth's husband.
  • Ellen Venable plays Elizabeth Lloyd Sherman, Lloyd's mother and Colonel Lloyd's daughter.
  • Bill 'Bojangles' Robinson plays Walker, Colonel Lloyd’s loyal butler. He shares famous dance scenes with Shirley Temple.
  • Hattie McDaniel plays Mom Beck, Elizabeth's kind housekeeper.

The Story: What Happens in The Little Colonel?

The movie begins with a disagreement between Colonel Lloyd and his daughter, Elizabeth. She marries Jack Sherman, a man her father does not approve of. Because of this, they do not speak for many years.

Years later, Elizabeth and Jack have a daughter named Lloyd. When Jack faces financial trouble, Elizabeth decides to visit her father. She hopes to mend their relationship.

Young Lloyd, with her charm and cheerful spirit, helps to bring her family back together. She slowly wins over her stern grandfather. The film shows how love and understanding can overcome old arguments.

Famous Dance Scenes: Temple and Robinson

One of the most memorable parts of The Little Colonel is the dancing. Shirley Temple and Bill "Bojangles" Robinson perform several amazing tap dances together. Their "staircase dance" is especially famous.

These dances were groundbreaking for their time. They showed a special connection between the two performers. Their friendship on screen made the movie even more special for audiences.

Behind the Scenes: Making the Movie

The Little Colonel was made by Fox Film, a major movie studio at the time. It was released on February 22, 1935. The film runs for about 80 minutes.

The movie was a big success, earning $1.2 million. This was a lot of money back then! Its popularity helped make Shirley Temple an even bigger star. The film continues to be loved by families today.

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