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Boys Town is a 1938 American drama film directed by Norman Taurog, starring Spencer Tracy, Mickey Rooney, and Henry Hull. The story is based on the real-life Boys Town organization, which aims to reform and educate troubled youth. The film is a heartwarming and inspiring depiction of the power of love and compassion in shaping young lives.

The film opens with Father Flanagan, played by Tracy, speaking to a group of wealthy donors at a fundraising event. He tells them about his mission to help neglected and troubled boys by providing them with a safe and supportive home at Boys Town, his self-sustaining community in Omaha, Nebraska. Despite the skepticism of some of the donors, Father Flanagan's sincerity and determination win them over, and they pledge their support for his cause.

The main focus of the film is on Whitey Marsh, played by Rooney, a young delinquent who is sent to Boys Town after a series of thefts and run-ins with the law. At first, Whitey is resistant to the disciplined and structured environment of the home, but he gradually learns to trust and respect Father Flanagan and his fellow residents. Through various challenges and setbacks, Whitey comes to see Boys Town as a place where he can find acceptance and guidance, and eventually becomes a model student and leader among his peers.

Throughout the film, Father Flanagan is depicted as a compassionate and wise mentor, who sees the potential in each of the boys in his care. He is a firm disciplinarian, but also a loving and supportive figure who helps the boys to overcome their personal struggles and develop their talents and skills. His philosophy of treating every boy as an individual, and valuing their self-worth regardless of their past mistakes, is a central theme of the film.

Another important character in the film is Dave Morris, played by Hull, a wealthy businessman who initially opposes Father Flanagan's work. He sees the boys at Boys Town as hopeless cases, and believes that they are destined for lives of crime and poverty. However, as he spends more time at the home and witnesses the positive changes in the boys' lives, he begins to appreciate Father Flanagan's approach and supports his cause. Dave's transformation from a skeptical critic to a dedicated ally is a testament to the power of Boys Town's mission.

Overall, Boys Town is a heartwarming and uplifting film that celebrates the transformative power of love and compassion. The performances of Tracy, Rooney, and Hull are all excellent, and the film's message of hope and redemption is as relevant today as it was in 1938. The story of Boys Town is an inspiring example of how dedicated individuals can make a positive difference in the lives of troubled youth, and the film is a testament to the enduring legacy of Father Flanagan's mission.

Boys Town is a 1938 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 33 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.2.