About Darby O'Gill and the Little People

'Darby O'Gill and the Little People' is a whimsical and enchanting Disney film released in 1959 based on the books of H. T. Kavanagh. The film is packed with magic. It revolves around the old caretaker Darby O'Gill, who has a knack for spinning tales about leprechauns. Once Darby actually captures King Brian, the leader of the Leprechauns, he tries to outsmart the magical creature to get his three wishes fulfilled - and set the stage for a series of incredible adventures, love, and laughter.

Making / Production

The film was directed by Robert Stevenson and produced by Walt Disney Productions. Much of its charm lies in its special effects, which were extremely advanced for the time and which give the leprechauns and their magic a sense of real presence and potentiality.

Actors

• Albert Sharpe played the role of the old storyteller Darby O'Gill. He splendidly captured the jovial spirit of the character and seamlessly delivered the story's magic and humor.
• Janet Munro as Katie O'Gill, Darby’s daughter. She elegantly showcased the character’s innocence and the romance plotline effectively.
• Sean Connery in the role of Michael McBride. As a pre-James Bond Connery, he charmingly brings to life the romantic interest of Katie.
• Jimmy O'Dea as King Brian, leader of Leprechauns. O'Dea brilliantly portrays the shrewd but lovable character that furthers Darby's exciting adventure.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• This film was one of Sean Connery's first major film roles, before he became famous as James Bond.
• Although set in Ireland, most of the film was actually shot at the Walt Disney Studios in Burbank, California.
• Sean Connery does his own singing in the film.
• The film was adapted from H.T. Kavanagh's stories, which were previously adapted into a stage musical in 1904.

Quotes

• "Little people, big world." - Darby O'Gill
• "If I had the wings of a sparrow... If I had the tail of a crow... I'd be up with the sunrise... Instead of down with the hoe."' - King Brian
• "Don’t you see? ‘Tis all a bit of fun." - Michael McBride

Music, Soundtrack

• The score was composed by Oliver Wallace who created a whimsical and enchanting soundtrack that perfectly complements the Irish folkloric theme of the movie.
• One of the notable songs in the film is "The Wishing Song", sung engagingly by King Brian (Jimmy O'Dea).
• Another famous song from the movie, "Pretty Irish Girl", is sung by Sean Connery and Janet Munro, adding a sweet romance to the score.