Pollyanna1960Pollyanna
1960
An orphaned girl arrives in a stern New England town to live with her wealthy, rigid aunt, armed only with the "glad game" her missionary father taught her. One by one, the town's sour hearts begin to soften, and then Pollyanna's own gladness is put to the test.
The default: films the whole family can watch together; any scary or intense moments for the littlest viewers are flagged in the Context Notes.
Why it’s here
A child's grateful, cheerful heart softens a hardened town, and a fearful preacher rediscovers the "glad texts" of Scripture. It shows how joy and contentment can be chosen, not just felt.
Context notes
For parents, before you press play.
Pollyanna sneaks out against her aunt's wishes and falls from a tree, leaving her unable to walk for a time, which may upset young children. The fall is a consequence of the disobedience, but the town's love brings healing, so it's a gentle way into obedience and gladness in hardship.
Pollyanna (1960)
Discussion questions
When the credits end, go around the room. Each person gives the film a score out of ten and says why.
- What was the "glad game"? Could you play it on a hard day?
- Why was Aunt Polly so stern at first? Did she change?
- What did you think of the minister's sermons before and after he met Pollyanna?
- Who in the town did you like best, and why?
Content advisory
Common Sense Media 6+: a frightening fall from a tree; no language, drinking, or sexual content.
Trailer
Best edition
The disc comes first.
Pollyanna Blu-ray (Disney Movie Club Exclusive)
Blu-ray · February 10, 2015
Coming later
Where to stream
Streaming services are not listed yet. When they are, this note stays secondary to the disc.