Movie Monday: Hans Brinker or the Silver Skates

Remember back when the whole family gathered around the TV on Sunday nights to watch The Wonderful World of Disney?  (For a touch of nostagia watch the opening below.)



Back in 1962 when it was called Walt Disney's Wonderful World of Color, the film Hans Brinker or the Silver Skates was featured in two parts on the television series.  The movie is an adaptation of Mary Mapes Dodge's novel about a Dutch boy and his family.  In the story, the Brinkers live simply and happily until an accident injures the father and Hans finds himself responsible for supporting his family.  He struggles with odd jobs, and when he discovers a surgeon who can help his father recover he realizes he must do something to earn the money to fund the treatment.  Hans and his younger sister travel to Amsterdam to compete in the annual ice skating race to win the prize money, but are at a disadvantage because they only have wooden skates, not fine silver skates like the privileged city youth have.  The movie's exploration of class differences, family relationships, and determination is well-done for a film of its era.

The story is set in 1860's Holland and is a colorful way to acquaint your kids with 19th century Dutch life.  Filmed in the Netherlands with a native cast, the windmills, traditional Dutch costumes, wooden clogs, and, of course, ice skating hallmark this delightful story of adventure and courage.

Other Movie Monday posts:

Sound of Music

The Waltz King

Hans Brinker or the Silver Skates

When in Rome

Percy Jackson & the Olympians:  The Lightning Thief

Madeline

Winning London

Hogan's Heroes

Anastasia

The Moon Spinners

Heidi

Animated Heidi

Around the World in 80 Days

National Lampoon's European Vacation

Young Sherlock Holmes