Watch Angel in My Pocket

Angel in My Pocket is a heartwarming and humorous movie from 1969 that provides an insight into the struggles and triumphs of a small-town minister. It stars Andy Griffith as Reverend Samuel D. Whitehead, a minister who is sent to a rural farming community in California after his church is closed down due to a lack of funds. Jerry Van Dyke plays the eccentric Josh Morgan, a farmer who becomes Whitehead's friend and confidant, while Kay Medford stars as Whitehead's long-suffering wife, Clarissa.

The plot of the movie revolves around Whitehead's attempt to establish his ministry in the conservative and deeply religious community he has been assigned to. He finds himself at odds with the local residents, who are more interested in fighting over land rights than listening to his sermons. Whitehead's efforts to unite the community are further hampered by his own lack of experience and the problems posed by his endearing but underhanded assistant, Josh Morgan.

The film offers an insightful look into the life of a clergyman who is facing insurmountable odds to establish his ministry. Whitehead is initially greeted with hostility by the staunchly religious community, who are wary of his liberal views and unorthodox approach to preaching. However, his strong convictions and compassion for the community win them over, and he becomes a beloved figure in their eyes.

Throughout the movie, the audience is treated to a series of amusing anecdotes that showcase the comical and heartwarming situations that arise when a city boy is thrust into the rural world of farming. Whitehead tries his hand at farming, only to realise that he is woefully out of his depth. He also takes on the local football team, which has been the source of many a heated argument in the town, in order to unite the community.

The standout performance in the movie is by Andy Griffith, who is at his charming best as the pragmatic and compassionate Reverend Samuel D. Whitehead. His portrayal of the character is sincere and genuine, and he manages to convey the character's warmth and compassion with great ease. Jerry Van Dyke is also excellent as Josh Morgan, the mischievous and eccentric farmer who becomes Whitehead's greatest ally in his quest to bring the community together.

The movie is directed by Alan Rafkin, who does a wonderful job of balancing the humorous and serious elements of the story. The movie's screenplay, written by James Lee Barrett, is well-crafted and provides insights into the struggles of a clergyman who is trying to establish his ministry in a conservative community. The movie's score is also noteworthy, with music by Perry Botkin Jr. that expertly captures the mood of the film.

Overall, Angel in My Pocket is a charming and heartwarming movie that provides a glimpse into the struggles and triumphs of a small-town minister. Andy Griffith delivers a standout performance as the compassionate Reverend Samuel D. Whitehead, while Jerry Van Dyke adds a touch of comic relief as his eccentric assistant. The movie is a great example of classic American cinema, and is a must-watch for fans of heartwarming dramas.