Little Lord Fauntleroy is a drama adapted from Frances Hodgson Burnett’s beloved 1886 children’s novel. The story follows young Cedric Errol, an American boy living in New York with his widowed mother. When he unexpectedly inherits the title of Lord Fauntleroy, he is summoned to England to live with his wealthy but cold and cantankerous grandfather, the Earl of Dorincourt. Cedric’s innocence, kindness, and charm gradually soften the Earl’s heart, leading to reconciliation, family unity, and moral lessons on compassion and humility.
Genre: Drama / Family
Director: John Cromwell
John Cromwell (1887–1979) was an American actor and director whose career spanned stage and film. Known for his versatility, Cromwell directed romances, dramas, and literary adaptations during the 1930s and 1940s. He often drew out heartfelt performances from actors and was skilled in balancing intimate character studies with broader narratives. Later in his life, he also returned to acting, notably appearing in Robert Altman’s “3 Women” (1977). His films often reflected sensitivity to character psychology and moral dilemmas.
Star Cast:
- Freddie Bartholomew as Cedric Errol (Lord Fauntleroy)
- Dolores Costello Barrymore as Dearest Errol
- C. Aubrey Smith as Earl of Dorincourt
- Guy Kibbee as Mr. Hobbs
- Henry Stephenson as Havisham
- Mickey Rooney as Dick Tipton
- Constance Collier as Lady Lorridaile
- Una O’Connor as Mary
The film was warmly received as a faithful and heartfelt adaptation of Burnett’s classic. Audiences praised Freddie Bartholomew’s performance, which captured Cedric’s innocence and sweetness, while C. Aubrey Smith brought depth to the initially harsh but ultimately softened Earl. Critics admired the film for its sentimentality and moral core, though some considered it overly sweet. For families and admirers of the novel, it became a memorable 1930s adaptation.
Fun Facts:
- Freddie Bartholomew was one of the most popular child actors of the 1930s, and this role cemented his reputation as Hollywood’s premier child star after Shirley Temple.
- The film was one of several literary adaptations of the decade, reflecting Hollywood’s interest in bringing well-known novels to the screen.
- Dolores Costello Barrymore, who played Cedric’s mother, was married to John Barrymore and was herself a major star during the silent and early sound eras.
- Mickey Rooney, who appears in a supporting role, was on the cusp of rising to major stardom.
- This film helped maintain interest in Burnett’s novel, which had already been adapted as a silent film in 1921.
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