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Shirley Temple, John Boles, Rochelle Hudson, Jane Darwell, Rafaela Ottiano ... see more see more... , Esther Dale , Etienne Girardot , Arthur Treacher , Maurice Murphy , Shirley Temple Black

This adaptation of the oft-filmed Jean Webster novel Daddy Long Legs has been tailored to the talents of Shirley Temple. The orphaned daughter of vaudeville entertainers, Elizabeth Blair (Temple) is t... read more read more...he most precocious charge at super-strict Lakeside Orphanage, regularly disrupting protocol with her extemporaneous performance of such songs as "Animal Crackers in My Soup" at the dinner table. While paying a visit to the orphanage, wealthy trustee Edward Morgan (John Boles) is enchanted by cute little Elizabeth -- and even more so by the girls more mature sister Mary (Rochelle Hudson). He secretly arranges for the sisters' release from the institution, sets them up in a lavish mansion, and finances their education. When Mary almost falls in love with another man, it is miss-fixit Elizabeth who brings Mary and Edward together, capping this bit of cupidity with her trademarked exclamation "Oh, my goo'ness!" The first Shirley Temple vehicle specifically aimed at children, Curly Top contains some wonderful character bits from its adult cast, notably Etienne Girardot, Rafaela Ottiano and Jane Darwell as the orphanage officials and by Arthur Treacher and Billy Gilbert as the hero's household servants. ~ Hal Erickson, Rovi

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74% liked it

2,528 ratings

G, 1 hr. 14 min.

Directed by: Irving Cummings

Release Date: January 1, 1935

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DVD Release Date: August 30, 2005

Stats: 103 reviews

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Flixster Reviews (103)

  • SunilJawahir
    June 2, 2008
    SunilJawahir
    I watched this a bunch of times as a kid. Shirley Temple is pretty adorable as a spunky orphan.
  • trisarahtops22
    November 17, 2007
    trisarahtops22
    Not my favorite, but definately enjoyable.
  • TheCreeper11
    July 31, 2010
    TheCreeper11
    Shirley Temple really is America's sweetheart! This movie's a classic tale about an orphan wanting to be different. WIth such catchy songs as "Animal Crackers In My Soup",and "When I Grow Up",it's no wonder everyone sings along! With her classic sweetheart humor and catchphrase,t... read morehis movie will have YOU saying, "Oh my goodness!"
  • HappyFenton
    July 27, 2010
    HappyFenton
    Despite the many naysayers, this remains my favorite Shirley Temple film. A sweet simple romance that boasts some of Shirley's best songs including "Animal Crackers in My Soup" and "When I Grow Up." Shirley's exuberance, spunk, and sweetness is as natural as her boundless tale... read morent.

    In addition, Boles and Hudson possess undeniable chemiistry. This movie flows fluidly from song to song and scene to scene. While I enjoy conflict/angst in dramatic films every now and then, it is refreshing to embrace cheerfulness.

    Based on one of my favorite novels (Jean Webster's beloved classic) Daddy Long Legs, this cinematic gem remains true to the heart of Webster's novel, although it is an obvious vehicle for Shirley.

    The only negative part of this film is that it didn't last nearly long enough. I do wish the romance entailed more "chase." Of course, that is just my "romantic" heart.

    I would highly recommend this film to everyone! It will put a smile in your face and leave a song in your heart. You'll be humming the tunes for weeks!

    Curly Top is an unforgettable, addictive viewing experience with a superb moral message and heartfelt romance!

    I love everything about it!
  • Rottengirl23
    May 5, 2009
    Rottengirl23
    When I was a little kid I would sleep over my grandma's house and we would always watch SHirley Temple movies together. Watching these movies brings me back to that time.
  • gucky
    November 15, 2008
    gucky
    Can a movie be enjoyable without a main conflict? Somewhat. This depression-era fantasy piece is super cute.
  • marymaria14
    March 24, 2008
    marymaria14
    Curly Top was a fun movie to watch. Bought a DVD and watched it for 3x already and still want to watch again. I highly recommend this especially for kids because it does have a good moral value to learn. Thumbs up!

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Critic Reviews

Andre Sennwald
March 25, 2006
Andre Sennwald, New York Times

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Emanuel Levy
September 29, 2005
Emanuel Levy, EmanuelLevy.Com

No review available.

May 24, 2003
Film4

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Curly Top Trivia

  • Name the actress from the following list of movies that she starred in. *hint there is a non-alcoholic drink named after her *Stand up and cheer *Little Miss Marker *Baby Take a Bow *Bright Eyes *Curly Top  Answer »
  • Curly ______ _____per _____az _____ Secret! Over The ______ ___ Hat ____ Gun What word or letters is missing from these movie titles?  Answer »
  • Shirley Temple sang "Animal Crackers In My Soup," in which film?  Answer »
  • Curly Top" is a loose remake of what classic movie?   Answer »
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