Back in 1997, a bunch of movies hit the theaters, including big names like Titanic, Men in Black, and The Fifth Element. Among them was a lesser-known gem called FairyTale: A True Story. This film, inspired by the real-life Cottingley Fairies, featured talented actors such as Peter O’Toole and Paul McGann. Watching it, I was instantly swept up in its magical setting and perfect costumes, and it kindled a belief in magic from the moment the first fairy appeared on screen.
The Plot – Fairytale: A True Story
Set in 1917, the story revolves around Elsie Wright, who lives with her parents in the small village of Cottingley. After her brother Joseph’s death, her mother Polly is deeply grieving and keeps Joseph’s belongings untouched. Both Polly and Elsie mourn in black attire for much of the film. Elsie, feeling her brother’s loss, takes comfort in visiting a nearby stream where she believes fairies live.
Soon, Elsie’s cousin Francis comes to stay with them as her father is missing in action in France. The girls find solace in the company of the fairies and decide to keep their existence a secret to protect them. However, when Polly desperately seeks a sign of something magical to ease her grief, the girls take photos with the fairies to lift her spirits. This act unexpectedly spirals into a much bigger adventure.
Polly hands the photos to Edward Gardner, an expert in mystical beings, who then consults with Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, who also believes in magic. Convinced of their authenticity, the two men provide the girls with new cameras, hoping for additional evidence. Harry Houdini also gets involved, eager to uncover the truth. The film then follows this group on their quest to unveil the unknown while the family finds a way to heal and come closer together.
The History
The film diverges from actual history in a significant way. In reality, one of the girls eventually admitted that the photos were faked, although the other continued to believe in fairies until her death. Elsie, who confessed to the hoax, explained that they felt too embarrassed to reveal the truth. In contrast, the film portrays the fairies as undeniably real, showing their care for the girls and their desire for the girls’ happiness, enhancing the magical narrative.
The Characters
Elsie transforms from a shy, quiet girl into someone more confident and outspoken, always maintaining her belief in the fairies. As the story progresses, she begins to emerge from her grief, symbolized by her transition from black mourning attire to more colorful clothing. Together with Francis, she honors Joseph’s memory by completing the fairy house he had started. Florence Hoath plays Elsie beautifully, showcasing her confusion and wonder while evolving throughout the film.
Francis starts out more confident and worldly, having traveled extensively. Despite her initial confidence, she is worried about her father’s fate. Elizabeth Earl captures Francis’s mix of sadness and wonder as she navigates her hopes and fears while finding fairies as a source of comfort.
Both girls become overwhelmed by the attention their photos attract, meeting figures like Sir Arthur Conan Doyle and Harry Houdini, and dealing with the press. They initially struggle with their unexpected fame and maintaining their secret. By the film’s end, Elsie and Francis contemplate whether they will always believe in the fairies, ultimately deciding that belief doesn’t require sight.
Final Thoughts on FairyTale: A True Story
FairyTale: A True Story is reminiscent of the film A Little Princess in its exploration of family, love, and the unseen forces at work in the world. However, FairyTale leans more into the magical aspect, posing the questions: would you believe? Do you believe? It’s an engaging narrative that reminds us that some things, even if unseen, might still be real.
Content Warning
Other than a few emotional moments that might make you cry, the movie is quite clean and appropriate for most audiences. It has a PG rating and contains some images of disease and injured soldiers.
FairyTale: A True Story is an enchanting film that taps into themes of family, grief, childhood innocence, and faith in the unseen. It’s perfect for anyone who loves stories about fairies, family bonds, and the magic of belief.
