With her blond curls and winning personality, Shirley Temple was the perfect choice to star in the 1937 musical drama “Heidi”. This classic film will be the March feature for Movie Night at the Museum screening 7 p.m. Tuesday, March 28 at the Northwest Montana History Museum.
Directed by Allan Dwan and written by Julien Josephson and Walter Ferris, the film is loosely based on Johanna Spyri’s 1880 children’s book that tells the story of an orphan girl living with her grandfather (Jean Hersholt) in the Swiss mountains. Her happy life is disrupted when she is brought to live in Frankfurt as a companion for Klara, a spoiled, disabled girl played by Marcia Mae Jones. As Heidi helps Klara regain her health, the housekeeper, Fraulein Rottenmeier (Mary Nash) realizes she is losing control over her charge. She hopes to regain that control by selling Heidi to the gypsies, but the plot fails and Heidi is once again allowed to live with her grandfather.
“Heidi” was one of only two films made by Temple in 1937, but it was a commercial success and helped make the child star the number one box office draw for the third year in a row.
Admission and popcorn are free, but donations are gladly accepted. For this screening, free Shirley Temples (the drink) will be on offer as well. Soda pop, water, beer and wine are available for purchase. Seating is provided, but viewers are welcome to bring their own cushions or seating.
The Northwest Montana History Museum brings the past alive through exhibits, artifacts, educational programs and events. Regular museum hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays at 124 Second Avenue East, Kalispell. For information call 406-756-8381.