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OPEN CLASSIC CINEMA · 1292

The Little Match Seller

19023 minUnited Kingdom

Video edition: Wikimedia Commons
Original language: No spoken dialogue. Intertitles: zxx.
This copy runs: 3:15
Subtitles: No subtitle track in this language

Languages and subtitles

No subtitle track in this language

Wikimedia Commons · Directed by James Williamson Written by Hans Christian Andersen · Public domain

Synopsis

A young match seller faces cold and indifference on Christmas Eve. Lighting her matches brings visions of warmth and plenty, briefly replacing the street around her with the comfort she cannot reach.

DirectorsJames Williamson

Inspirations

James Williamson adapted Hans Christian Andersen's tale. The film communicates the girl's visions without intertitles, using visual effects for emotional drama rather than comic surprise.

Sources and availability

General references identify the work and its copy. A reference beside an editorial section is linked to the claims checked in that section.

Wikipedia — film reference Wikidata — film identity and credits

Work catalogued as public domain in the United States.

The public-domain references concern the original films in the United States. Rights can differ for other countries, editions, restorations, music or translations. Sources are listed on each film page.

Availability checked on September 16, 2026.

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