Good concept, poorly executed.

In other words,this film is a surreal ride.

Good films always raise compelling questions, whether the format is fiction or documentary fact.

The movie's neither hopeful in contrived ways, nor hopeless in different contrived ways. Somehow it manages to be wonderful

I adore this book - I read it as a child and now teach it as a teacher! This Claudia is great, mouthy and awkward but sensitive and determined.SPOILER: My biggest problem is the final lesson that Mrs. Frankenweiler teaches Claudia - the goo about her only sadness being that she couldn't have a child. Where did THAT come from? Why must that foolishness be added to this wonderful story about adventure and choosing individuality? It is like she is saying, "Claudia - it is great to be curious and adventurous but don't forget to have kids because that is the only thing that really matters in the end." She's 12!! My students are totally turned off by that and view Mrs. F in a whole different (distant and not connected to their lives) sort of way. It sacrifices the chance for them to relate to an older person as "cool" and interesting. Too bad.I haven't had a chance to the see remake but I hope the Lauren Becall wouldn't stand for such sentimental claptrap. (Mind you - with the remake out of print and the only copies I can find costing more than $200 - I don't think I'll be seeing it anytime soon!) By the way, if anyone would like an educational consultant for a new remake - I'm your girl! :) Alice Sensei in Japan

That's about it - imagine running away from home, living in a tree-house and having great adventures. This film was fantastic fun. It may not be highbrow art, but it is a fun film for the kids!The other guy who commented on this film was obviously looking for something more adult and intelligent. I found that this film was well meaning and had good moral standing. It is a film to take you on a journey and allow you to see things that you otherwise would not. A good exploration of posh kids meeting with street kids, alien experiences like living alone and being self-sufficient. Very entertaining for a young mind hungry for stimulation. It is about friendships and trust, independence and coming of age. Fighting your own battles and finding yourself. I really liked this film when I saw it the first time in the 80's on television. I think I would enjoy it again, although I doubt I would watch it unless I chanced upon on television one night. I would consider watching it if I have kids, I would like them to see it.

I agree with the previous poster that this movie is not very believable. The problem is that I get the feeling this person doesn't realize the intended audience and never read the book. While not a faithful adaptation of the children's book, it did a fantastic job of capturing my imagination as a young child and creating new wonderful adventures in my mind. There isn't a museum or gallery that I attend without thinking about Claudia and wanting to hide out and create a wonderful adventure for myself. Yes almost 30 years after I read the book and saw the movie, I still have fond memories that are obviously lasting a lifetime. A job well done. (on the flip side, avoid the 1995 made for TV version).

I found Sally Prager's portrayal of Claudia delightful. The character is intelligent, curious, full of wonder, and caring toward her younger brother. Her independence and courage are admirable. I sympathized completely with "Mrs. Frankweiler's" attraction to this spunky young girl. Ingrid Bergman's appearance toward the end of this movie elevates the film to a new level; as ever, her acting is superb.