FairyTale: A True Story (1997)
Release Date:
1997
Movie Rating:
PG
Runtime:
1h 39m

Synopsis:
FairyTale: A True Story is set in 1917 and follows two young cousins, Elsie and Frances, who live in England. The girls discover a group of fairies in their garden and capture them on camera, sparking widespread interest and debate. As their photographs gain attention, they attract the curiosity of famous figures like Sir Arthur Conan Doyle and Harry Houdini. The story unfolds as the girls navigate the excitement and skepticism surrounding their discovery, while the world around them becomes captivated by the possibility of magic. The film explores the adventures and challenges the girls face as they try to prove the existence of fairies, all while maintaining their friendship and dealing with the reactions of the adults around them.






FairyTale: A True Story, released in 1997, is a family-friendly drama that blends elements of fantasy and historical fiction. As a movie rated PG, it is intended for kids and offers a whimsical yet thought-provoking narrative that captures the imagination. Most parents appreciate its gentle storytelling and the way it encourages belief in the extraordinary, though some are cautious about its more intense moments.
Why Kids Should Watch FairyTale: A True Story
The movie is praised for its enchanting portrayal of belief and imagination.
- Promotes the positive message of believing in magic and the power of imagination.
- Features strong performances by young actors who bring authenticity to their roles.
- Visually captivating scenes that transport viewers to a magical world.
- Encourages curiosity about history and the real-life events that inspired the story.
Why Kids Shouldn’t Watch FairyTale: A True Story
Some parents express concerns about the film's emotional depth and intensity.
- Contains themes of loss and skepticism that may be challenging for younger viewers.
- Scenes involving adult disbelief in the children's experiences could be confusing.
- Some visual effects might be intense for sensitive children.
Verdict: Mixed Messages
Verdict: Mixed Messages
Parents are divided—some love it, others raise concerns about its emotional depth and themes of skepticism.
What Parents Should Know About FairyTale: A True Story
Question | Answer |
---|---|
Does this movie model positive behavior that my child can understand and repeat? | The characters demonstrate perseverance and the courage to stand by their beliefs despite skepticism. |
Does this movie include emotional moments my child might find confusing or intense? | The film explores themes of loss and disbelief, which may require parental guidance to discuss. |
Does this movie show consequences for unkind or unsafe behavior? | Characters who dismiss the children's experiences face social consequences, highlighting the importance of open-mindedness. |
Does this movie reinforce helpful social skills like sharing, apologizing, or teamwork? | The children work together to prove their story, showcasing teamwork and mutual support. |
Will my child come away with any clear moral or message? | The core message is about the power of belief and imagination, delivered through the children's unwavering faith in their experiences. |
The Overall Sentiment From Parental Feedback
FairyTale: A True Story is celebrated for its enchanting narrative and the way it encourages children to believe in the extraordinary. While some parents appreciate its historical context and positive messages, others caution about its emotional depth. Engaging in discussions about the film's themes can enhance understanding and enjoyment. For families seeking similar experiences, movies like "The Secret Garden" or "A Little Princess" might also be appealing.
Official FairyTale: A True Story Trailer
FairyTale: A True Story, released in 1997, is a family-friendly drama that blends elements of fantasy and historical fiction. As a movie rated PG, it is intended for kids and offers a whimsical yet thought-provoking narrative that captures the imagination. Most parents appreciate its gentle storytelling and the way it encourages belief in the extraordinary, though some are cautious about its more intense moments.
Why Kids Should Watch FairyTale: A True Story
The movie is praised for its enchanting portrayal of belief and imagination.
- Promotes the positive message of believing in magic and the power of imagination.
- Features strong performances by young actors who bring authenticity to their roles.
- Visually captivating scenes that transport viewers to a magical world.
- Encourages curiosity about history and the real-life events that inspired the story.
Why Kids Shouldn’t Watch FairyTale: A True Story
Some parents express concerns about the film's emotional depth and intensity.
- Contains themes of loss and skepticism that may be challenging for younger viewers.
- Scenes involving adult disbelief in the children's experiences could be confusing.
- Some visual effects might be intense for sensitive children.
Verdict: Mixed Messages
Verdict: Mixed Messages
Parents are divided—some love it, others raise concerns about its emotional depth and themes of skepticism.
What Parents Should Know About FairyTale: A True Story
Question | Answer |
---|---|
Does this movie model positive behavior that my child can understand and repeat? | The characters demonstrate perseverance and the courage to stand by their beliefs despite skepticism. |
Does this movie include emotional moments my child might find confusing or intense? | The film explores themes of loss and disbelief, which may require parental guidance to discuss. |
Does this movie show consequences for unkind or unsafe behavior? | Characters who dismiss the children's experiences face social consequences, highlighting the importance of open-mindedness. |
Does this movie reinforce helpful social skills like sharing, apologizing, or teamwork? | The children work together to prove their story, showcasing teamwork and mutual support. |
Will my child come away with any clear moral or message? | The core message is about the power of belief and imagination, delivered through the children's unwavering faith in their experiences. |
The Overall Sentiment From Parental Feedback
FairyTale: A True Story is celebrated for its enchanting narrative and the way it encourages children to believe in the extraordinary. While some parents appreciate its historical context and positive messages, others caution about its emotional depth. Engaging in discussions about the film's themes can enhance understanding and enjoyment. For families seeking similar experiences, movies like "The Secret Garden" or "A Little Princess" might also be appealing.
Official FairyTale: A True Story Trailer
The Core Values Learned From FairyTale: A True Story
FairyTale: A True Story's most common core values include Imagination, Friendship, and Believing in yourself. The movie beautifully showcases imagination as the young cousins, Elsie and Frances, explore the Magical world of fairies, encouraging kids to dream and see beyond the ordinary. Friendship is highlighted through the strong bond between the girls, who support each other despite skepticism from adults, teaching children the importance of standing by their friends. Believing in yourself is a key theme as the girls remain confident in their discovery, even when faced with doubt, showing kids the power of self-Belief and Perseverance in the face of challenges.
Other Core Values Explored: Curiosity | Family love | Creativity | Courage | Determination | Empathy | Standing up for what's right | Respect | Trust | Perseverance | Emotional growth | Self-discovery
The 5 Biggest Lessons Learned From FairyTale: A True Story
Believing in Yourself: In FairyTale: A True Story, kids learn the importance of believing in themselves through Elsie and Frances's determination to prove the existence of fairies. Despite skepticism from adults, the girls trust their instincts and creativity, showing children that self-belief can lead to extraordinary discoveries.
Embracing Differences: The film teaches children to embrace differences by showcasing how Elsie and Frances's unique perspectives and talents complement each other. Their friendship thrives because they appreciate what makes each of them special, encouraging kids to value diversity in their own relationships.
Keeping an Open Mind: Children learn to keep an open mind as the story unfolds, with characters like Sir Arthur Conan Doyle and Harry Houdini showing interest in the girls' discovery. This openness to new ideas and possibilities encourages kids to explore the world with curiosity and wonder.
Valuing Imagination: The movie highlights the power of imagination as Elsie and Frances capture the magical world of fairies on camera. This encourages children to value their own creativity and imagination, reminding them that seeing the world through a lens of wonder can lead to amazing adventures.
Supporting Your Friends: Elsie and Frances's unwavering support for each other teaches kids the importance of standing by their friends. Their journey shows that true friendship means being there for one another, even when faced with challenges and doubts from others.
Other Lessons Learned: Practicing Empathy | Holding Onto Hope | Facing Fears Head-On | Discovering Hidden Strengths | Building Friendships
Why Kids Love FairyTale: A True Story
FairyTale: A True Story invites kids into a magical adventure where the ordinary world meets the extraordinary. The enchanting garden, home to mysterious fairies, becomes a playground of wonder and excitement. Elsie and Frances, with their boundless curiosity, embark on a thrilling quest to capture the fairies on camera, sparking imaginations and igniting a sense of adventure. The film is filled with whimsical moments and unexpected friendships that keep kids engaged, as the girls navigate a world where magic and reality intertwine.
The presence of famous figures like Sir Arthur Conan Doyle and Harry Houdini adds a touch of intrigue and mystery, making the story even more captivating. Kids will be drawn to the enchanting visuals and the sense of discovery that unfolds as the girls stand up for their beliefs and explore hidden kingdoms. With its blend of magic, friendship, and adventure, FairyTale: A True Story is a delightful journey that captures the hearts and imaginations of young viewers.