Overview

The Inn of the Sixth Happiness is a 1958 British biographical drama directed by Mark Robson. It adapts Alan Burgess's 1957 book The Small Woman and presents a cinematic account, with considerable dramatic shaping, of the life and work of British missionary Gladys Aylward in China. The film was distributed by 20th Century Fox and attracted attention for its large-scale storytelling and star-led cast.

Plot and themes

The narrative follows a determined young woman who travels to China and establishes an inn that becomes a center for local children and villagers. The story dramatizes her practical faith, persistence amid cultural and bureaucratic obstacles, and a climactic effort to protect a group of children during wartime upheaval. Central themes include cross-cultural encounter, personal conviction, and the responsibilities of care under threat.

Cast and characters

The production is anchored by a leading performance from Ingrid Bergman, supported by actors including Curt Jürgens and veteran performer Robert Donat. The ensemble also features Athene Seyler, Moultrie Kelsall and Burt Kwouk. The film blends well-known screen personalities with character actors to portray a variety of foreign and local figures.

Production and historical basis

The film is a Hollywood-style retelling rather than a strict documentary account. It draws on the widely known story of Gladys Aylward, a British woman who worked in China as a missionary and became noted for her efforts on behalf of children and villagers. Filmmakers compressed events, introduced fictionalized episodes and emphasized cinematic drama to shape the narrative for international audiences.

Reception and legacy

Upon release the film received attention for its evocative setting, Bergman’s central performance and its melodramatic sweep. Critics and later commentators have noted both the emotional impact and the liberties taken with historical detail. It remains part of mid-20th-century cinema that explored real-life humanitarian stories through star-driven studio productions.

Further notes

  • The movie illustrates how popular cinema adapts real lives into broader mythic narratives and raises questions about fidelity and representation.
  • For readers seeking more context on the source material and the historical Gladys Aylward, the original book The Small Woman is a common entry point.