Every year, families look forward to the charming tale of "Der kleine Lord," or "Little Lord Fauntleroy," which has woven itself deeply within the fabric of holiday traditions across generations. Released in 1980, the film showcased the youthful talent of Ricky Schroder, who portrayed the character Ceddie Errol, capturing hearts with his innocent charm.
The story, adapted from Frances Hodgson Burnett's classic novel, follows the young Ceddie, who discovers he is heir to a British earldom and embarks on heartwarming adventures with his stern grandfather, played by the esteemed Sir Alec Guinness. The film's gentle narrative, combined with its picturesque settings, has made it a staple of Christmas cinema, with airings scheduled once again for December 23rd and 26th, 2024, on ARD.
Filming took place at Belvoir Castle, located in Leicestershire, England, carefully selected to provide authenticity to the story's aristocratic backdrop. This stunning real-life castle has been the family home of the Duke of Rutland since the 16th century and remains the residence of David Manners, the 11th Duke. Tourists often flock to Belvoir Castle not only to witness its grandeur but also to relive the cinematic moments from the film. The castle is open year-round, and special Christmas events attract even more visitors during the holiday season, featuring beautifully decorated rooms and unique festive paths through the grounds.
The allure of Belvoir Castle, celebrated for its extraordinary beauty, has extended beyond the film, as it has also appeared in significant productions such as "The Da Vinci Code" and the critically acclaimed series "The Crown," notable for doubling as Windsor Castle.
While many relish the enchanting aspects of "Der kleine Lord," the film's star, Ricky Schroder, has made headlines for very different reasons over the years. Once cherished as the boy who brought Ceddie to life, he has shifted from child star to controversial figure. Schroder has not only maintained his position within the film industry as an actor, director, and producer but has also gained notoriety for his outspoken political opinions and involvement with various contentious issues, particularly surrounding the events surrounding Kyle Rittenhouse and COVID-19 theories.
Despite these controversies, Schroder remains active on social media, captivating over 120,000 followers on Instagram. He has also faced significant personal challenges, including the dissolution of his marriage with Andrea Schroder after 24 years and several legal issues, including arrests related to domestic violence.
Yet, every holiday season, the heartwarming narrative of "Der kleine Lord" prevails, with its message of love, family, and acceptance. Viewers continue to embrace the story and its charming settings. Belvoir Castle remains not just a filming location but a symbol of nostalgia and cultural significance for many fans.
For those unable to visit Belvoir directly, Exton offers local sites connected to the film, including the church where young Ceddie attends Sunday service with his grandfather, enriching the experience of the film's legacy.
Whether it is the breathtaking visuals of Belvoir Castle or the tale of Ceddie Errol, "Der kleine Lord" serves as both a cinematic gem and timeless holiday classic. This unique blend of authentic locations and enchanting narratives ensures the film continues to resonate within the hearts of viewers around the world.