The Blue Bird

Watch The Blue Bird

  • G
  • 1976
  • 1 hr 39 min
  • 5.4  (1,232)

The Blue Bird is a fantastical adventure film that was released in 1976, directed by George Cukor. The movie is based on a play by Maurice Maeterlinck, and tells the story of two young siblings who set out on a journey to find the bluebird of happiness. The film is a star-studded affair, featuring an impressive cast of actors, including Elizabeth Taylor, Jane Fonda, Cicely Tyson, Ava Gardner, and Robert Morley.

The movie is set in a mythical world where happiness, love, and kindness are the driving values. The film follows the journey of Mytyl (played by Todd Lookinland), a young girl, and her brother Tyltyl (played by Patsy Kensit), as they embark on an incredible adventure to find the bluebird of happiness. The siblings are guided by two woodland creatures, a cat named Tylette (played by Emma Jacobs) and a dog named Tylo (played by Cicely Tyson), who take them on an incredible journey through lush forests, enchanted gardens, and magical castles.

As the siblings journey through each place they visit, they are transported into a magical world where the bluebird of happiness is said to exist. Along the way, they meet a series of magical characters who help them on their journey, including a mysterious woman known as Night and a wise old oak tree named the Grandmother of Time (played by Elizabeth Taylor). However, the siblings also encounter a number of dangerous situations, including a battle against the evil Night, who tries to stop them from finding the bluebird.

Throughout the movie, the children learn valuable lessons about life, love, and happiness. They learn that happiness cannot be found through material possessions but can only be found within themselves. They also learn about the importance of family, friendship, and kindness. Along the way, the characters encounter a number of fantastical creatures, including fairies and statues that come to life, that add to the movie's magical quality.

The Blue Bird received mixed reviews upon its release, with some critics praising its imaginative visuals and its enchanting story, while others criticized its uneven pacing and its sometimes overly sentimental tone. The movie was a commercial failure, grossing only $1.2 million at the box office against its $12 million budget. However, its star-studded cast and imaginative visuals have helped it to maintain a cult following over the years.

The film's director, George Cukor, was a Hollywood veteran who had directed a number of classic films, including My Fair Lady and The Philadelphia Story. The movie was his last directing credit before his death in 1983. The film's script was written by Alan Jay Lerner, who was best known for his work on a number of classic musicals, including My Fair Lady and Gigi.

Overall, The Blue Bird is a fascinating and imaginative movie that is perfect for audiences of all ages who enjoy whimsical storytelling and magical adventures. While it may not have been a commercial success upon its release, its imaginative visuals and its enchanting cast of characters have helped it to remain a cult classic over the years. Fans of classic fantasy films will surely enjoy this movie's colorful visuals and its uplifting message about the power of kindness, love, and friendship.

The Blue Bird
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Description
  • Release Date
    1976
  • MPAA Rating
    G
  • Runtime
    1 hr 39 min
  • Language
    English
  • IMDB Rating
    5.4  (1,232)