Two children in 1917 take a photograph believed by some to be the first scientific evidence of the existence of fairies. Based on a true story. Studio: Paramount Home Video Release Date: 03/28/2006 Starring: Harvey Keitel John Bradley Run time: 99 minutes Rating: Pg Director: Charles Sturridge
When her father is declared missing in action during World War I, Elsie Wrigth (Florence Hoath) goes to live in England with her cousin Frances Griffiths (Elizabeth Earl) for whom the topic of fairies is forbidden. Immediately, the girls discover the winged creatures in the garden and photograph them for Frances's startled parents. This leads to another kind of adventure for the girls. They become the toasts of London as Sir Arthur Conan Doyle (Peter O'Toole) and Harry Houdini (Harvey Keitel), who have seen the photographs, escort them around town. Mildly villainous reporters chase the girls and curious spectators invade their garden after the pictures are printed publicly.
Although fairies are the visible subjects, the enchanting video is really about faith. Frances's parents (Phoebe Nicholls and Paul McGann) recently lost their son, Joseph, who had originally discovered the fairies and would like to think he may be an angel. Sir Arthur also lost his son and is courted by clairvoyants who claim they can talk to the boy. Elsie waits patiently for her father to come home, although it appears hopeless that he will. Harry Houdini is an illusionist but acts against the fraudulent claims of greedy mediums and the like. They are all touched by a need to truly believe in what remains hidden. The story is very loosely based on an early 20th-century controversy involving the real Frances and Elsie who faked pictures of fairies similar to the ones in the video. The real girls never confessed, but the video suggests the manner in which the real life photos may have been produced. --Margaret Griffis
Customer Reviews:
Avg. Customer Rating: 4.5 / 5.0
Fairy Tale - A True Story:
This has been one of my favorite movies for several years. I just bought a copy for each set of grandchildren. It would not keep the attention of very young children, but is perfect for 6 year olds and above. Look for the uncredited appearance of Mel Gibson at the end of the movie.
An Extraordinary Charmer:
A five-year old girl was to be my guest for dinner (along with her parents), and I wanted to have something she could entertain herself with while the adults talked. With the advice of a store clerk, I rented five or six different titles suitable for young children. Without a moment's hesitation, my young guest selected this film from my pile. She was right on. We all watched it together, entranced. It is the most tasteful, convincing, and interesting piece of fantasy I have ever seen on film. With a rich... more info
"Fairy Tale: A True Story" Is About BELIEF! And A Delight For All Ages With Fine Performances--Including A Mel Gibson Cameo!:
As a Peter O'Toole fan I ran across this film and held it in my basket for close to a year, until I finally purchased it--and I am very pleased with my choice. My decision was based primarily on the Wikipedia introduction:
"Fairy Tale: A True Story" is a 1997 film from Paramount Pictures, very loosely based on the legend of the Cottingley Fairies [See Wikipedia for the "real" story]. It was directed by Charles Sturridge and starred Peter O'Toole and Harvey Keitel, with Florence Hoath and Elizabeth... more info
Very enjoyable way to spend some time:
While not a cinematic masterpiece, this was a very enjoyable way to spend some time and to depart from the cares of the day. It was a nice fantasy with a bigger message. I would recommend this for adults and children alike. Especially for those who are capable from departing from reality for a bit.
