Boys Town
Boys Town

Boys Town

1938Movie96 minEnglish

Devout but iron-willed Father Flanagan leads a community called Boys Town, a different sort of juvenile detention facility where, instead of being treated as underage criminals, the boys are shepherded into making themselves better people. But hard-nosed petty thief and pool shark Whitey Marsh, the impulsive and violent younger brother of an imprisoned murderer, might be too much for the good father's tough-love system.

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Insights

IMDb7.2/10
Rotten Tomatoes100%
Google Users95%
Director: Norman TaurogGenres: Drama, Family, History, Biography

Plot Summary

Father Edward J. Flanagan, a compassionate priest, establishes Boys Town, a home for delinquent and abandoned boys, in Omaha, Nebraska. Despite facing skepticism and financial struggles, Father Flanagan dedicates his life to rehabilitating troubled youth, showing them love and discipline. The film follows the journey of a particularly challenging boy, Whitey Marsh, and his transformation under Father Flanagan's guidance, highlighting the profound impact of his humanitarian efforts.

Critical Reception

Boys Town was a critical and commercial success, lauded for its powerful performances, especially Spencer Tracy's Oscar-winning portrayal of Father Flanagan. The film's heartwarming message and its depiction of social reform resonated deeply with audiences and critics alike, earning it widespread acclaim and solidifying its status as a classic inspirational drama.

What Reviewers Say

  • Spencer Tracy delivers a career-defining performance as the saintly Father Flanagan.
  • The film offers a moving and inspirational portrayal of hope and redemption for troubled youth.
  • A powerful social drama that effectively balances sentimentality with a realistic depiction of rehabilitation.

Google audience: Viewers widely praise Boys Town for its uplifting story, Spencer Tracy's outstanding performance, and its enduring message of compassion and second chances for underprivileged boys. Many find it a timeless and deeply touching film.

Awards & Accolades

Won the Academy Award for Best Actor (Spencer Tracy) and received nominations for Best Picture, Best Director, Best Adapted Screenplay, and Best Original Story. Spencer Tracy also won the Golden Globe Award for Best Actor for his role.

Fun Fact

Spencer Tracy's portrayal of Father Flanagan was so convincing that he received thousands of letters addressed simply to 'Father Flanagan, Boys Town, Nebraska,' which were then forwarded to the real Father Flanagan.

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