I saw this movie as a kid and it was one of the most moving pieces of filmmaking I have ever seen. Mildred Dunnock gives an amazing performance as the homeless woman and it always sends me to tears. I wish this movie were available on DVD or video.
4 Reviews
Excellent for teaching empathy
jlapre23 January 2003
This film is timeless in its attempt to help young people as well as people of all ages to empathize with people who are at the senior citizen stage. Through the eyes of a young girl, the viewer sees the shopping bag lady as a real person, someone who was young once and had a real life. Its simplicity and delicate handling of the subject make it a superior film for teachers to show. (If they complain about b&w, just tell them, "no film"...it worked for me! Jr. High Teacher
Wonderful short film
Ripshin10 February 2005
As a child in the late 60s and early 70s, I watched the "CBS Children's Film Festival" with Kukla, Fran & Ollie. This short film was shown as an episode of the series, and I'll never forget its effect on me. Although I have not seen it since, I can remember several distinct scenes, and my emotional response to the storyline.
Although the project may not have been made for the Saturday series, most of my friends recall seeing it on that venue.
It's a shame this short is no longer available to the public. One can only hope it resurfaces sometime in the future. Perhaps the advent of old shows on DVD will eventually result in its rediscovery.
Although the project may not have been made for the Saturday series, most of my friends recall seeing it on that venue.
It's a shame this short is no longer available to the public. One can only hope it resurfaces sometime in the future. Perhaps the advent of old shows on DVD will eventually result in its rediscovery.
Quality Television for Both Adults and Children
agfine-12 June 2006
I've not only seen The Shopping Bag Lady, but actually have an old faded video tape of the show that I just recently re-watched. Even through the jittery video and glitches, it still resonates and has power. There is realistic and well constructed dialogue that shows kids and reminds adults that people are complex and that there is more to what we see than what is apparent. My five year old niece and I watched this show originally, and we both still remember it. That's an indication of the power of a half an hour piece of television watched nearly thirty years ago. There isn't a soppy or mishandled line or characterization in the entire show. The Shopping Bag Lady is well worth seeking out.
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