It's been four decades since Mary Pickford starred in an adaptation of Eleanor H. Porter's children’s book and stage play, Pollyanna, when Walt Disney decided to create his own film version. Those who aren’t particularly interested in early cinema might discover that this later telling is more enjoyable. Hayley Mills gives a wonderful performance as the relentlessly positive girl who encourages an entire community…

The New England community of Harrington, Vermont appears to be lacking a certain vibrancy when a young girl arrives on the scene. Set in 1912, the story follows an orphaned child accustomed to hardship as the daughter of missionaries (Hayley Mills) who goes to live with her affluent aunt (Jane Wyman). This aunt essentially controls the town and manages it through strict adherence to rules and regulations. The people …