The real-life Gladys Aylward was born in London in 1902 and had a strong calling to become a missionary in China from a young age. However, she was initially rejected by the China Inland Mission due to her lack of formal education. Undeterred, Gladys worked as a parlor maid and saved up enough money to buy a ticket to China in 1930.
Upon arriving in China, Gladys faced numerous challenges, including learning the language and adjusting to the local customs. She eventually made her way to the remote village of Yang Cheng, where she worked as a foot inspector, checking the feet of women to ensure they were not bound.
Gladys also ran an inn for travelers, which became a popular gathering place for the local community. She gained the respect of the local Mandarin and earned the nickname "Ai-weh-deh," or "virtuous one."
In the film, Gladys falls in love with Captain Lin Nan, a mixed-race Chinese officer who helps to protect the village from bandits. However, their romance is complicated by cultural differences and societal expectations.
When Japan invades China during World War II, Gladys becomes a surrogate mother to a group of Chinese orphans, leading them on a perilous journey to safety. The film depicts Gladys's heroism and bravery as she puts her own life at risk to save the children from the invading Japanese army.
The Inn of the Sixth Happiness was released in 1958 and starred Ingrid Bergman in the role of Gladys Aylward. While the film takes some liberties with the true story, it remains a powerful portrayal of one woman's determination to make a difference in the lives of others.