Movie spotlight
The Old Homestead
In this entry in the "Weaver Family" series, the town of Farmington is being plagued by a crime wave. The angry citizens are ready to impeach the mayor, June Weaver, and the police chief, Leon Weaver. To end the crime and preserve her career, June feigns corruption and hires a real gangster to get rid of the local mobs. Unfortunately, a bona fide crooked councilman intervenes and makes real mob connections causing an earnest journalist to launch a front page attack.
Insights
Plot Summary
A young woman leaves her family's failing farm in search of work in the city. She finds a job in a diner but soon discovers her boss is involved in illegal activities. Returning home, she must find a way to save her family's farm from foreclosure.
Critical Reception
This melodrama, starring Jane Withers in a more mature role, received a mixed reception. While Withers' performance was often praised, the plot was seen by some critics as overly sentimental and predictable. Audiences, however, generally responded positively to the film's themes of family and perseverance.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for Jane Withers' development as an actress.
Criticized for a predictable and overly sentimental storyline.
Appreciated for its heartwarming themes of home and family values.
Google audience: Audience reviews are scarce for this film, but those available suggest a generally positive reception, with viewers appreciating the film's emotional core and the lead performance.
Fun Fact
The film was an attempt by RKO Radio Pictures to elevate Jane Withers from a child star to a more dramatic actress.
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