Perri (1957)
Disney's pioneering True Life Fantasy follows Perri, a brave young squirrel facing forest predators, changing seasons, and her first love.
Perri - Movie Information
- Original Title: Perri
- Release Year: 1957
- Directed by: Ralph Wright, Paul Kenworthy
- Type: Movie
- Genres: Family, Fantasy, Adventure
- Age Rating (US): G
- Runtime: 1h 15m
- Original Language: English
- Spoken Languages: English
- Release Date (Theatrical): August 28, 1957 (United States - G)
- Alternative Titles: The Story of Perri (US)
- Production Companies: Walt Disney Productions
- Production Countries: United States of America
Perri - Plot
This True Life Fantasy follows and shows how the life of a female squirrel, Perri, in the forest is filled with danger and fraught with peril. When not fleeing her natural enemy, the Marten, Perri finds time to fall in love with her prince-charming male squirrel.
Where to Watch Perri
Looking for where to watch Perri?
Compare all viewing options available in your region on JustWatch ↗
Perri - Cast & Crew
Director(s)
- Ralph Wright
- Paul Kenworthy
Main Cast
- Walt Disney
- Winston Hibler
Writers
- Winston Hibler
- Ralph Wright
Producers
- Winston Hibler
Perri - FAQs
What is Perri (1957) about?
Perri follows a young female squirrel as she navigates the perils of forest life in Wyoming. From evading her relentless predator, the Marten, to discovering her first love, the film blends real wildlife footage with a gentle narrative to create a warm, nature-driven fairy tale unlike anything Disney had made before.
Is Perri based on a book?
Yes! Perri is adapted from Felix Salten's novel of the same name. Salten is best known for writing Bambi, and Perri shares that book's spirit — a tender, immersive look at a wild animal's life told with warmth and gentle drama.
Where can you stream or watch Perri?
You can stream Perri on Disney+. It's also available to rent or buy on Amazon Video, Apple TV, Google Play Movies, YouTube, and Fandango At Home — so there are plenty of ways to catch this classic Disney nature film.
What makes Perri different from other Disney films?
Perri holds a unique place in the Disney catalog as the studio's first True Life Fantasy — a hybrid blending real wildlife documentary footage with a fictional narrative. Rather than animation or live-action drama, it uses actual animals filmed in nature, giving the story an authentic, almost magical quality.
Is Perri suitable for young children?
Perri is rated G, making it suitable for all ages. That said, the film does include scenes of predator-prey tension — Perri is frequently hunted by a Marten — so very young or sensitive viewers may find some moments a little intense, though nothing graphic or frightening by modern standards.
Who directed and wrote Perri?
Perri was co-directed by Ralph Wright and Paul Kenworthy, with the screenplay written by Winston Hibler and Ralph Wright. Winston Hibler also served as producer and narrator, lending the film his warm, familiar voice that Disney nature audiences knew well from the True Life Adventures series.
Where was Perri filmed?
The film was shot on location in Wyoming, capturing the authentic beauty of American forest wilderness. The natural setting gives Perri its stunning visual character, with real seasonal changes — from lush summer greenery to snow-covered winter landscapes — forming a vivid backdrop for the story.
Is Perri worth watching today?
Absolutely, especially for fans of classic Disney and nature cinema. Perri is a charming, pioneering film that paved the way for nature storytelling in Hollywood. Its blend of real wildlife footage and heartfelt narrative feels fresh even now, and it remains a gentle, beautiful watch for families and film history enthusiasts alike.
More About Perri
Explore further details about Perri on these trusted resources.