Initially, this seems to be a likable, wholesome documentary on the legend behind that most wholesome of stars, Shirley Temple. We meet a great group of people devoted to the ringlet-wonder and a select few of them--such as the burly owner of Dimples Restaurant in Burbank, CA--are actually quite genuine in their affection (and not simply fanatical). Eventually though, one must feel a little sorry for the grown-ups who gather around in living rooms trading party favors and buttons, or the tiny modern tots prodded by their parents into imitating a Depression-era icon in tinsel-strewn amateur pageants. When a too-old child (in curls) performs "Animal Crackers" like a trouper to a seemingly indifferent crowd, all the nostalgic feelings in the world couldn't provide any uplift. It's just a bit grotesque.
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