Little Mother (1935 film)

Little Mother is a 1935 American historical drama film directed by Rowland V. Lee. It stars Evelyn Laye as Empress Maria Theresa of Austria. The film portrays a fictionalized account of the young Maria Theresa's challenges upon ascending to the throne and her efforts to secure the loyalty of her subjects and maintain the integrity of her empire. It is known for its elaborate costumes and set design, reflecting the opulent court of 18th-century Austria. The supporting cast includes Charles Butterworth, Ernest Truex, and Alan Mowbray. While not strictly a biopic, the film takes liberties with historical accuracy to emphasize the romantic and dramatic aspects of Maria Theresa's life. The movie's reception was mixed, with some critics praising Laye's performance and the visual splendor, while others found the historical inaccuracies and melodramatic plot points problematic.