Review of Boys Town (1938) by Jim T — 09 Apr 2012

Light and fluffy drama--can't say I much cared for it. Spencer Tracy gives a great performance, but when the focus shifts from him to Mickey Rooney, I quickly lose interest. I would have loved more development of boys town and a more in-depth look at Father Flanagan.

instead, we get a pretty glossed-over history and a really hammy "bad boy turned good" story that's about as cookie-cutter as they come. there are some strong points to this movie, and it certainly leaves you with a good feeling inside, but as well-made movies go, there are easily much better.