Smiley

From what I can tell, this is an American-British production from 1956, and filmed in Australia. But if you like relatively good-natured Disney films from the same era, think "The Yearling", "Treasure Island", "Davy Crockett", etc, then you are likely to enjoy this.It features a mischievous, red-headed little boy, nicknamed "Smiley" Greevins for his sunny disposition, who lives in a tiny hamlet called Murrumbilla, on the edge of the Outback. It's a town that you only see in these kinds of movies, where everyone knows everyone, and knows all their business, too. He's sort of an Australian Huckleberry Finn. His greatest wish is to own a bicycle. A big task for him, as it appears his oft-absent, drunkard, drover father can't even afford to keep shoes on his feet. So he goes onto working odd jobs, and singing for coins in the local bar, much to the dismay of the local constable, steadfast Australian actor Chips Rafferty, and sometimes the no-nonsense, but kind and wise Reverend Labeth, played by a pre-knighted Ralph Richardson.There are love interests by the adults, and some minor villainy, too. But nothing too evil or scary that kids couldn't watch. (One thing that is shown that is certainly not in keeping with modern PC-ism though, is the treatment of the local aborigines. In the few scenes that they are in, nothing is violent, but they are certainly looked down upon by the white villagers, as something worse than second-class citizens; like Native Americans in most westerns. And they don't really come across as mistreated Nobles, like in "Quigley Down Under". The film is a product of its time, but it could be a good side-object lesson and discussion for the kiddos, if you are so inclined.)The plucky hero, Smiley, goes though some trials and tribulations, but generally keeps a good attitude, and his eye on the prize, even after some major setbacks.I happen to have another reason to enjoy this film, as Smiley is a dead-ringer for my grandson.

This is a classic Australian kid's movie from the 1950s. It depicts a freedom unknown to children today, in a bucolic setting that reminds us of a simpler, more integrated "time gone by", which I suspect was rater "old", even for the time in which it was made. It's lack of political correctness is refreshing. This is a fun indulgence and essential viewing for anyone with an interest in vintage Australian films or movies made for children. The DVD I received is region 4, so will only play in region-free DVD players or those set on region 4.

Such a great movie. I saw it first as a lad in Australia. It was so authentically Aussie. The disc was perfect and quickly delivered.

for personal use

Good old movie for the grandkids. Didn't think it would be available.

I saw this film in the '50s at a children's matinee and it made a big impression on a 10 year old from the city. I recently found it on Amazon and watched it again and loved it just as much as I did then. Colin Petersen is just so good! He acts like a pro (which he is) and so is the rest of the cast. It is lovely to see Chips Rafferty, all of Australia in one package, and Ralph Richardson in it as well.

It was good to get thos movie on DVD that I recall seesing at the cinema when I was child. It stuck in my memory as it was the first time I had ever hear stereo sound. The picture quality and sound quality are good it was just a shame it is not presented in it's original CinemaScope ratio.