The Inn of the Sixth Happiness

"I'm here because they said I couldn't be and I'll stay here until they say I can." So vows Gladys Aylward, indelibly portrayed by Ingrid Bergman in this 1958 epic Cinemascope religious adventure based on the inspiring true story of Englishwoman Aylward's missionary work in pre-World War II China, where she goes "to be of value." Over the next two-and-a-half hours, the indomitable Aylward wins over the locals, the respect of the Mandarin (Robert Donat in his last film), and the love of a Eurasian captain (Curt Jurgens), ultimately fulfilling her destiny by leading 100 children to safety over the border in advance of a Japanese invasion. The very model of an old-fashioned Hollywood star vehicle, this latest addition to Fox's "Studio Classics" collection boasts a sharp, colorful DVD transfer, as well as a commentary track focusing on three different aspects: the real Aylward (documentary filmmaker Nick Redman), Bergman (biographer Donald Spoto), and Fox's involvement (film historian Aubrey Solomon). Recommended. (K. Lee Benson)