TCM screened this film recently and it was worth staying up past my bedtime to watch it. The film can be summed up in two words: Charles Coburn. He is magnificent as the perpetually inebriated yet good natured great grandfather. His dialogue is top notch and he delivers it to the hilt, at times funny, and others poignant. Dean Stockwell as the young boy is always interesting to watch, as are Jessica Tandy and Hume Cronyn. Fans of old films will recognize many stock players as well: the mother here is also the mother in The Fighting Sullivans and the school master turns up years later as the impresario for the Von Trapp children in the Sound of Music. It's fun to see him so young. The movie has a lot of the Goodbye Mr. Chips qualities I love in film. And keep your ears open and you'll hear strains of similar music from The Wizard of Oz - letting you know it's an MGM production. Throw in a bit of Charles Dicken's Oliver Twist and you've got a fine movie. I won't give any more away.
26 Reviews
Sort of like Scotland's answer to HOW GREEN WAS MY VALLEY
planktonrules10 February 2008
HOW GREEN WAS MY VALLEY was one of the best films of the 1940s and really did a lot to bring to life the Welsh experience at the end of the 19th century. The film featured brilliant writing, acting and John Ford's deft direction. Now five years later, MGM returns with a film that reminded me, in many ways, of this earlier film--though it is set in Scotland just a decade or so after HOW GREEN WAS MY VALLEY.
One major difference was that the main character (initially played by Dean Stockwell) was actually Scotch-Irish and when orphaned he was sent from Ireland to live with family in Scotland. Unfortunately, not everyone in the family was happy to see the kid--as the stingy (both financially and emotionally) grandfather (played exceptionally well by Hume Cronyn) saw the kid as a burden and obligation instead of kin. Also, the fact that the boy was Catholic didn't help matters. However, the great-grandfather (Charles Coburn) was quite different. Despite at first seeming a bit gruff, he became the boy's greatest friend and ally. Through the course of the film, we see the boy grow from childhood to young manhood (where he is played by Tom Drake).
The film has a nice touch to it--with really nice acting and direction. About the only negative is that perhaps they tried too hard to stick with the original book, as there were so many story elements that seemed unnecessary and distracting, while several characters were never fully developed. A good example was the friend being hit by a train--it came from no where and did NOTHING to further the story. Also several family members' motivations and behaviors seemed oddly difficult to predict. A good re-write and streamlining of the novel would have improved things. Now I am NOT suggesting they should have shortened the film--just devoted more time to character development. Still, this is a lovely and entertaining film.
One major difference was that the main character (initially played by Dean Stockwell) was actually Scotch-Irish and when orphaned he was sent from Ireland to live with family in Scotland. Unfortunately, not everyone in the family was happy to see the kid--as the stingy (both financially and emotionally) grandfather (played exceptionally well by Hume Cronyn) saw the kid as a burden and obligation instead of kin. Also, the fact that the boy was Catholic didn't help matters. However, the great-grandfather (Charles Coburn) was quite different. Despite at first seeming a bit gruff, he became the boy's greatest friend and ally. Through the course of the film, we see the boy grow from childhood to young manhood (where he is played by Tom Drake).
The film has a nice touch to it--with really nice acting and direction. About the only negative is that perhaps they tried too hard to stick with the original book, as there were so many story elements that seemed unnecessary and distracting, while several characters were never fully developed. A good example was the friend being hit by a train--it came from no where and did NOTHING to further the story. Also several family members' motivations and behaviors seemed oddly difficult to predict. A good re-write and streamlining of the novel would have improved things. Now I am NOT suggesting they should have shortened the film--just devoted more time to character development. Still, this is a lovely and entertaining film.
The trials and triumphs of a young boy raised in a small Scotish village.
ginoveloute30 September 2009
At first when I read the blurb of this film on the viewers guide I expected another "How Green Was My Valley," which had ruined coming-of-age films for me until I saw "Breaking Away" in '79. I started watching it anyway and soon found I was hooked for the next 127 minutes.
"The Green Years" demonstrate what a better film "Kings Row" could have been if someone other than Robert Cummings had played the lead. It's basically the same story set in Scotland: both take place in isolated rural towns, both deal with mental cruelty, and both deal with overcoming your circumstances to better your life. And ironically, both feature the splendid and versatile actor Charles Coburn in pivotal roles.
The people of this village seem real here, with Hume Cronin playing the tight-lipped tightwad of an extended family who "live like they're poor out of choice." Tom Drake is fine as the older Robbie Shannon, earnest and sincere, but with an increasing sense of cynicism appropriate for the role. Richard Hayden as the headmaster that befriends Robbie adds just the right amount of sanity, humor and hope you need in a story that runs over 2 hours.
But young Dean Stockwell and Coburn are magic, especially in the scene when he and 2 drunken friends try to teach young Robbie how to box. I can't recall a relationship between 2 actors on film, one very old and the other very young, that rings as fresh and honest as their's does. I think W.C. Fields and Freddie Bartholomew in "Great Expectations" come closest.
Yes, it's episodic, and perhaps a tad too long, and Norman Lloyd is wasted as one of Cronyn's sons. But if you have an affection for this sort of film made soon after the end of WWII, you won't be disappointed.
"The Green Years" demonstrate what a better film "Kings Row" could have been if someone other than Robert Cummings had played the lead. It's basically the same story set in Scotland: both take place in isolated rural towns, both deal with mental cruelty, and both deal with overcoming your circumstances to better your life. And ironically, both feature the splendid and versatile actor Charles Coburn in pivotal roles.
The people of this village seem real here, with Hume Cronin playing the tight-lipped tightwad of an extended family who "live like they're poor out of choice." Tom Drake is fine as the older Robbie Shannon, earnest and sincere, but with an increasing sense of cynicism appropriate for the role. Richard Hayden as the headmaster that befriends Robbie adds just the right amount of sanity, humor and hope you need in a story that runs over 2 hours.
But young Dean Stockwell and Coburn are magic, especially in the scene when he and 2 drunken friends try to teach young Robbie how to box. I can't recall a relationship between 2 actors on film, one very old and the other very young, that rings as fresh and honest as their's does. I think W.C. Fields and Freddie Bartholomew in "Great Expectations" come closest.
Yes, it's episodic, and perhaps a tad too long, and Norman Lloyd is wasted as one of Cronyn's sons. But if you have an affection for this sort of film made soon after the end of WWII, you won't be disappointed.
Special Charm
DKosty1239 May 2011
Warning: Spoilers
This movie reminds everyone of how good an actor Charles Coburn was. His legacy in films seems to be fading, glad TCM is bringing back films like this one.
Dean Stockwell makes an outstanding child performance in this movie. It is about a boy growing up in a multi-generation family with Grand parents and great grandparents. This is not a normal happening with this time era. It is a great study of what culture and times were in the time the tale is set (1900). Coburn brings off playing a great-grandpa who is more if a drunk than anything else. Still, he brings it in with a style that few actors in that era could.
This is an entertaining film that is very much worth viewing when you can catch it.
Dean Stockwell makes an outstanding child performance in this movie. It is about a boy growing up in a multi-generation family with Grand parents and great grandparents. This is not a normal happening with this time era. It is a great study of what culture and times were in the time the tale is set (1900). Coburn brings off playing a great-grandpa who is more if a drunk than anything else. Still, he brings it in with a style that few actors in that era could.
This is an entertaining film that is very much worth viewing when you can catch it.
Celebrating life's triumphs
jarrodmcdonald-128 February 2014
The film is based on A.J. Cronin's bestselling novel. It boasts an exemplary cast and a very evenly-written script. Venerable character actor Charles Coburn, a favorite of many, receives top billing. And true, his performance could easily dominate the movie. But the screenwriter is careful to intersperse moments of Coburn's wily great-grandfather character throughout the narrative while keeping the rest of the ensemble in focus.
The cast includes real-life husband and wife Hume Cronyn and Jessica Tandy (though they do not play a married couple here). It also features child actor Dean Stockwell in the first half and matinée idol Tom Drake in the second half as the young protagonist.
The Green Years pulls at our heartstrings one moment, then makes us laugh uproariously the next (usually because of Coburn's antics). But throughout the story there is a valuable lesson about the importance of making sacrifices and celebrating life's triumphs.
The title is meant to suggest several possible meanings. I urge you to view the film and discover what it means for you.
The cast includes real-life husband and wife Hume Cronyn and Jessica Tandy (though they do not play a married couple here). It also features child actor Dean Stockwell in the first half and matinée idol Tom Drake in the second half as the young protagonist.
The Green Years pulls at our heartstrings one moment, then makes us laugh uproariously the next (usually because of Coburn's antics). But throughout the story there is a valuable lesson about the importance of making sacrifices and celebrating life's triumphs.
The title is meant to suggest several possible meanings. I urge you to view the film and discover what it means for you.
New ideals vs. old fashioned prejudices.
mark.waltz11 September 2016
Warning: Spoilers
Sentiment is the name of the game in this often slow, frequently ponderous drama of growing up in the new generation, and growing old (actually ancient) three generations before. Young Dean Stockwell comes to his Scottish relatives from Ireland, a scandal in itself that his late mother of Scottish descent married, saints preserve us, an Irishman! With great grandma Gladys Cooper teaching Stockwell about salvation and great grandpa Charles Coburn teaching him sin, the lad is going to have a very liberal education! It should be noted that Cooper and Coburn are from opposite sides of the family. Even though they live under the same roof, they can't stand each other.
With Selena Royle and Hume Cronyn as his maternal grandparents and Jessica Tandy as a devoted aunt, Stockwell gets a lot of love in this large clan, and grows up to be the boy next door, Tom Drake. He longs for a career in science and medicine, but circumstances keep that from being achieved.
Outstanding photography and a gloriously feisty performance by the always bombastic Charles Coburn. Its rather odd to see the married Tandy and Cronyn as daughter and father, especially with personal circumstances if the time being what they are. I must admit I got bored here and there, but that was put on the back burner every time Coburn showed up.
With Selena Royle and Hume Cronyn as his maternal grandparents and Jessica Tandy as a devoted aunt, Stockwell gets a lot of love in this large clan, and grows up to be the boy next door, Tom Drake. He longs for a career in science and medicine, but circumstances keep that from being achieved.
Outstanding photography and a gloriously feisty performance by the always bombastic Charles Coburn. Its rather odd to see the married Tandy and Cronyn as daughter and father, especially with personal circumstances if the time being what they are. I must admit I got bored here and there, but that was put on the back burner every time Coburn showed up.
Dean Stockwell as orphaned Irish lad raised by Scottish grandparents...
Doylenf9 May 2011
Fidelity to a book when transitioned to the screen is a good thing, but not when there's an overabundance of plot to cover. Some details of the A.J. Cronin novel could have been trimmed or eliminated entirely in order to present a more concise telling of a tale involving an orphan boy's growing up pains in Scotland when his mother dies.
DEAN STOCKWELL is the boy, a sort of David Copperfield youth who has to adjust to harsher times in a hurry. His Scottish grandparents are tight with their money and have little to offer him other than a roof over his head and a grandfather who takes him under his wing with his tall tales and carefree high-spirited behavior.
As the boy's maternal grandparents, HUME CRONYN and SELENA ROYLE are fine, in keeping with the professional tone of all the supporting performances. JESSICA TANDY seems a bit miscast as Cronyn's eldest daughter who hates to see Dean Stockwell suffering from ill treatment by his skinflint relatives. GLADYS COOPER is excellent as the well-intentioned grandma who thinks grandpa Coburn is a bad influence on the boy's upbringing.
TOM DRAKE and BEVERLY TYLER step into the adult portion of the film as the boy (now a young man) hopes to win a scholarship that will help him study medicine, urged on by the professor who recognizes his skill, well played by RICHARD HAYDN. But by the time the story has reached the midway point, too much time has been spent in developing the boy's "green years" when there is so much plot to be developed for the balance of the film. A good trimming of unnecessary material would have been of great benefit to the story, particularly the sub-plot involving Drake's closest friend (HANK DANIELS) who meets an untimely death on the railroad tracks.
Charles Coburn's rich characterization of the very animated great grandfather is the film's strongest point of interest. He's wonderful and deserves the star billing he gets here. Full of bluster and tall tales, he's a windbag but an amusing one.
DEAN STOCKWELL is the boy, a sort of David Copperfield youth who has to adjust to harsher times in a hurry. His Scottish grandparents are tight with their money and have little to offer him other than a roof over his head and a grandfather who takes him under his wing with his tall tales and carefree high-spirited behavior.
As the boy's maternal grandparents, HUME CRONYN and SELENA ROYLE are fine, in keeping with the professional tone of all the supporting performances. JESSICA TANDY seems a bit miscast as Cronyn's eldest daughter who hates to see Dean Stockwell suffering from ill treatment by his skinflint relatives. GLADYS COOPER is excellent as the well-intentioned grandma who thinks grandpa Coburn is a bad influence on the boy's upbringing.
TOM DRAKE and BEVERLY TYLER step into the adult portion of the film as the boy (now a young man) hopes to win a scholarship that will help him study medicine, urged on by the professor who recognizes his skill, well played by RICHARD HAYDN. But by the time the story has reached the midway point, too much time has been spent in developing the boy's "green years" when there is so much plot to be developed for the balance of the film. A good trimming of unnecessary material would have been of great benefit to the story, particularly the sub-plot involving Drake's closest friend (HANK DANIELS) who meets an untimely death on the railroad tracks.
Charles Coburn's rich characterization of the very animated great grandfather is the film's strongest point of interest. He's wonderful and deserves the star billing he gets here. Full of bluster and tall tales, he's a windbag but an amusing one.
The old and the very young make this movie!
dougandwin17 July 2007
A.J. Cronin's "The Green Years" has been splendidly brought to the screen thanks mainly by the performances of that grand old stager Charles Coburn, and that wonderful child star Dean Stockwell (what a pity he ever had to grow up!) Their scenes together are something very special even today. Coburn was nominated for best supporting actor, which was unfair, as he is clearly the star and should have had the nomination of Best Actor. As a young Cathoic lad thrown into a family of Scottish Protestants, Stockwell is quite amazing. The supporting cast of Gladys Cooper, Hume Cronyn ( a little over the top), Jessica Tandy and Richard Haydn are very very good, while Tom Drake is the best he ever was in a movie. The atmosphere of the era and the village is brilliantly captured by Director Victor Saville.
Stockwell and Coburn make it interesting, then . . .
jacksflicks17 February 2019
There's a powerful scene in this movie, when a cynical, thoughtless elder tells a young child that there is no Santa Claus. It could come from Truffaut's The 400 Blows. It's a memorable moment in an otherwise forgettable movie, in which Dean Stockwell, one of the great child actors, is replaced by the annoyingly mealy-mouthed Tom Drake, who, when everybody else wears his straw hat straight, has his pushed way back, like he did in Meet Me in St. Louis, as if that bland face can't project beyond the brim. He's even paired with a romantic interest that's as unappealing as he is. Aside from the Falstaffian Charles Coburn, a fine cast, including Hume Cronyn, Jessica Tandy, Gladys Cooper and Norman Lloyd, are wasted on characters they make interesting but aren't allowed to develop. A.J. Cronin wrote human interest novels made into fine movies, like The Citadel, the Stars Look Down and Keys to the Kingdom. Contrast them with this. After Stockwell, don't waste your time.
Special
mulveymeister12 July 2009
I find this film charming. As a 1950's Dublin kid, I loved the acting, direction, script and message of this film. I agree that it is a Scottish 'How green is my Valley'. I have always felt closer to Scotland than Wales, although not understanding why! Dean Stockwell and Tom Drake are especially wonderful. Nowadays, some follow ups would be certain. I would love to follow Robert Shannon's adulthood, after this film ended. I have always been a fan of Jessica Tandy and it was great to see her as a young girl, knowing what a successful career she had. This is a warm hearted Sunday afternoon film with feel good after-shocks. I don't know if a colour remake is possible but it's a black and white classic. Enjoy!
Episodic and Boring
evanston_dad31 July 2020
An episodic and, dare I say, kinda boring movie about a young boy growing up in a Scottish town. Everything that you might think would happen in a movie like this happens. He wants to do one thing with his life but his parents want him to do another. He's in love with a childhood friend but it takes them forever to just admit they're in love with each other. He doesn't have the money to pursue his ambitions until, through a twist of circumstances, he does. All the time he absorbs the life lessons of his irascible great grandfather, played by Charles Coburn in an unacceptable beard and haircut. It's a warm, gentle, unoffensive, slightly drab and boring movie that's typical of a lot of movies that came out around WWII and shortly after, seemingly made for an audience with PTSD.
Coburn received an Oscar nomination for Best Supporting Actor, and the extremely unlucky George Folsey received his eighth of fourteen unsuccessful nominations for his black and white cinematography.
Grade: B-
Coburn received an Oscar nomination for Best Supporting Actor, and the extremely unlucky George Folsey received his eighth of fourteen unsuccessful nominations for his black and white cinematography.
Grade: B-
Wonderful movie
filmsfan3811 September 2003
I've only seen this movie on the TV and even then, it was years ago and its never been on TV again. I saw it before the days of VCR's. Its such a good movie, and unfortunate that it never came out on video or better still, on DVD. The movie was taken from the A.J. Cronin book of the same name. Dean Stockwell's performance was well done in the part of Robert Shannon a young Scottish boy. His father Hume Cronyn is the penny pinching father. Another favourite of mine is Jessica Tandy (Hume Cronyn's wife in real life, is also in the movie. As always and one of my favorite actors is Charles Coburn. Tom Drake plays the part of the older Robert Shannon. He wasn't in a lot of movies, but I always liked him. So far, it has never been on video or TV but if you ever see it listed in the TV Guide, watch it. Its very good.
A SWEET SCOTTISH FABLE OF FAMILY...!
masonfisk19 November 2021
A 1946 rite of passage is featured in this film which chronicles a Scottish orphan who's raised by his estranged extended family. Young Robert (played by Quantum Leap's Dean Stockwell) arrives in Scotland to live w/family he's never met before after his parents die in an accident. Not finding any immediate rapport w/anyone in his clan except his eccentric great-grandfather, Robert soon settles in & when he becomes older, he dreams of becoming a doctor even though a friend of the family, & an all out braggart, is vying for the same scholarship he's after. Finding solace & support in his ties to his family, Robert, now played by Tom Drake, remains hopeful even though the odds are against him. A wonderful evocation of a time & place, this story is all charm & Scottish fancy w/a wonderful central performance by Charles Coburn, nominated for an Oscar here, playing the great granddad. Co-starring future power couple Hume Cronyn & Jessica Tandy w/Norman Lloyd playing the family's lawyer.
Avuncular good sense
shrine-213 August 2000
I long to see the English star, Jessie Matthews, in one of the musicals she made during the thirties. The director of the movie version of A.J. Cronin's "The Green Years"--Victor Saville--had the good fortune to direct her quite a few of them. I hear they were bright and sparkling and urbane, and a joy to watch. I wish I could say the same about "The Green Years" which is unduly shadowy. It chronicles the life of a Scottish boy (the pouty-lipped, fluffy-haired Dean Stockwell) who must endure maybe the most emotionally-pinched father in the history of movies (Hume Cronyn). He survives much of the alienation of affection in his childhood with the help of his large-spirited uncle (Charles Coburn) who always has the good sense to give the boy a helping hand with anything he wanted. He turns into Tom Drake (He was "The Boy Next Door" in "Meet Me in St. Louis.") who is a good physical match to Cronyn. He dreams of a vocation in the sciences, and it's the uncle that comes to his aid again. Coburn is a blessing here, because the only moments in the movie that do not owe their life to him are a stiff musical number with Beverly Tyler at the heart of it that is like a placard proclaiming Catholic purity and righteousness, and an outdoor scene with the usual assortment of kilts, tam-o-shanters, sporrans, and burly log-tossers. It's about then that you might think about heading for the nearest exit. To make your next bag-piping lesson, I'd think.
Is the scenarist the same Robert Ardrey who wrote "The Territorial Imperative?" I'm not sure, but it might explain the father's standoffishness and the barrel-chested log-tossers.
Is the scenarist the same Robert Ardrey who wrote "The Territorial Imperative?" I'm not sure, but it might explain the father's standoffishness and the barrel-chested log-tossers.
Green Is Gold
krocheav12 September 2015
If anything this film gives us a look at some overlooked talent within Hollywood, also of work overlooked by some film critics. Firstly the overlooked talent: MGM for not utilizing the remarkable Beverly Tyler, this natural talent sang like an Angel and looking back at her superb performance of a prime number from Handel's Messiah, it leaves you wondering why? ~ could it be because she might not have 'played the game' in Hollywooodland...
Secondly, overlooked works by Critics: Over the years there have been many examples of certain critics uniformly choosing to bag various works (including this one). To cite just a few: "We are not Alone" '39 (Muni) ~ "Rapture" '65 (Stockwell again) ~ "Walk on the Wild Side" '62 (turned a trashy Nelson Algren book into a decent look at life during the 1930s) ~ "The Arrangement" '69 (Elia Kazan's biting observations of the excesses of advertising-TV's 'Mad Men' series copied aspects of this one). These were all astute productions, offering in-depth character studies brought to life via highly effective performances. Reading between the lines of selected reviews it seems evident some critics either chose not to support, or did not get the intended messages (?). Whatever the reasons, their cynicism can often be evident. In the case of 'The Green Years' anyone who knows how to enjoy golden years movie making, should find it stands on solid legs of it's own. It's rather odd this classic has been little seen over the years (despite it being very popular in it's initial release!). In some respects it now seems even better in comparison to many of the sub-standard productions that have followed it.
The entire cast could not be more perfect, bringing A.J.Cronin's multi-layered characters vibrantly to life. Charles Couburn as grandfather is a hoot (despite his amber failings). Dean Stockwell as the orphaned lad is as reliable as you could ever hope for. The screenplay adaption of Cronin's classic novel keeps all the essential ingredients moving along strongly. Award winner George Folsey as cinematographer, captures striking visuals under the deft call of versatile director Victor Saville. The whole experience results in a shining encapsulation of the pathos, drama, and humour of a young man's journey into manhood.
This movie is up there with the likes of "Kings Row" '42 and Cronin's earlier classic from '38 "The Citadel". If you're too cynical to allow natural sentiment to enter your movie experience, then this may not be for you...but then again, nostalgia and sentiments travel hand in hand through all our lives. Novelists, poets, songwriters, all relate to melancholic reminiscences. You might be fortunate to find it available on Warner Archive DVD, otherwise tune into TCM (their print may not be terrific but is better than others I've seen). Recommended for lovers of first class classics....junk lovers, beware. KenR
Footnote: planktonrules from Florida, has posted a neat summery for comparison ~ although I disagree with his comment about too many story elements. Any details that were major in the book needed to be included in the film, having said that, I'm pleased the film makers did not opt for an over long running time (I also note: the print I saw on TCM ran 120mins not 127m as listed on IMDb) Not sure what was going on there but I was quite happy with it anyway.
Secondly, overlooked works by Critics: Over the years there have been many examples of certain critics uniformly choosing to bag various works (including this one). To cite just a few: "We are not Alone" '39 (Muni) ~ "Rapture" '65 (Stockwell again) ~ "Walk on the Wild Side" '62 (turned a trashy Nelson Algren book into a decent look at life during the 1930s) ~ "The Arrangement" '69 (Elia Kazan's biting observations of the excesses of advertising-TV's 'Mad Men' series copied aspects of this one). These were all astute productions, offering in-depth character studies brought to life via highly effective performances. Reading between the lines of selected reviews it seems evident some critics either chose not to support, or did not get the intended messages (?). Whatever the reasons, their cynicism can often be evident. In the case of 'The Green Years' anyone who knows how to enjoy golden years movie making, should find it stands on solid legs of it's own. It's rather odd this classic has been little seen over the years (despite it being very popular in it's initial release!). In some respects it now seems even better in comparison to many of the sub-standard productions that have followed it.
The entire cast could not be more perfect, bringing A.J.Cronin's multi-layered characters vibrantly to life. Charles Couburn as grandfather is a hoot (despite his amber failings). Dean Stockwell as the orphaned lad is as reliable as you could ever hope for. The screenplay adaption of Cronin's classic novel keeps all the essential ingredients moving along strongly. Award winner George Folsey as cinematographer, captures striking visuals under the deft call of versatile director Victor Saville. The whole experience results in a shining encapsulation of the pathos, drama, and humour of a young man's journey into manhood.
This movie is up there with the likes of "Kings Row" '42 and Cronin's earlier classic from '38 "The Citadel". If you're too cynical to allow natural sentiment to enter your movie experience, then this may not be for you...but then again, nostalgia and sentiments travel hand in hand through all our lives. Novelists, poets, songwriters, all relate to melancholic reminiscences. You might be fortunate to find it available on Warner Archive DVD, otherwise tune into TCM (their print may not be terrific but is better than others I've seen). Recommended for lovers of first class classics....junk lovers, beware. KenR
Footnote: planktonrules from Florida, has posted a neat summery for comparison ~ although I disagree with his comment about too many story elements. Any details that were major in the book needed to be included in the film, having said that, I'm pleased the film makers did not opt for an over long running time (I also note: the print I saw on TCM ran 120mins not 127m as listed on IMDb) Not sure what was going on there but I was quite happy with it anyway.
Great story, great performances
samhill521521 May 2011
A measure of this film's quality is that days after screening it I'm still thinking about it. It's a great multifaceted story with many and varied parallel plots and the performances will stay with you for a long time. Several scenes have become permanently engraved in my mind, too many to enumerate. Others have commented on Charles Coburn's performance and yes, it is outstanding, but not the only notable one. Hume Cronyn's miserly Papa Leckie is exasperating and even oddly sympathetic. Norman Lloyd who plays Papa's son is truly a chip off the old block if with more joviality. Gladys Cooper and Selena Royale are both excellent as always and Dean Stockwell gives a very nuanced performance, more so than in any other film I've seen him in. I should also mention Beverly Tyler whom I have never seen before if only for her singing voice which is truly angelic. And let's not forget another outstanding performance by Jessica Tandy in a complete role reversal from her previous outing in "The Valley of Decision". She is by far my favorite here even though she is not a headliner, with Coburn and Hume close seconds. If I have a gripe it's about the chronology. The story takes place in 19th century Scotland, a notoriously unhealthy place, yet it covers four generations. Coburn's grandpa is already an old man when Bobby comes to live with the Leckies yet he lives long enough to see Bobby to young adulthood a decade later. To top it all off he's an overweight alcoholic and his lifestyle is anything but healthy. That alone stretches all credulity although it is possible, if barely so. I think I'll have to read Cronin's novel on which the film is based to discover how the author handled this detail. Put that aside though and enjoy a great find.
How Wonderfully Green Were these Years ****
edwagreen23 May 2011
Warning: Spoilers
What a grand movie of 1946. We have so many elements here from previous great films- "Oliver Twist," as well as "How Green Was My Valley."
Charles Coburn, though listed as the leading star of the film, was nominated for best supporting actor here, 3 years after his win in the same category for "The More the Merrier." He was absolutely terrific as the great-grandfather with such a good outlook, and a man way ahead of his times. He was almost equally matched by a fine performance by Hume Cronyn as a man who gave new definition to the term stingy.
Surprising that Jesse Tandy, and Gladys Cooper had relatively so little to do with their parts.
Equally amazing was Dean Stockwell as our very young boy, and Tom Drake who played him grown up.
This film gave us an honest reflection of not being able to get into a medical school by any back door method. Money talks. We see the bullying of the youngster Stockwell and how he was taught to overcome it in the same way that young Hugh was taught in "How Green Was My Valley."
We see a young Drake disillusioned and losing his faith following the tragic accident that killed his friend, his inability to get into medical school when he can't get the needed scholarship, and the death of his beloved grandmother, after he prayed so hard for her recovery.
This was a beautifully done film in black and white.
Charles Coburn, though listed as the leading star of the film, was nominated for best supporting actor here, 3 years after his win in the same category for "The More the Merrier." He was absolutely terrific as the great-grandfather with such a good outlook, and a man way ahead of his times. He was almost equally matched by a fine performance by Hume Cronyn as a man who gave new definition to the term stingy.
Surprising that Jesse Tandy, and Gladys Cooper had relatively so little to do with their parts.
Equally amazing was Dean Stockwell as our very young boy, and Tom Drake who played him grown up.
This film gave us an honest reflection of not being able to get into a medical school by any back door method. Money talks. We see the bullying of the youngster Stockwell and how he was taught to overcome it in the same way that young Hugh was taught in "How Green Was My Valley."
We see a young Drake disillusioned and losing his faith following the tragic accident that killed his friend, his inability to get into medical school when he can't get the needed scholarship, and the death of his beloved grandmother, after he prayed so hard for her recovery.
This was a beautifully done film in black and white.
Fine Narrative but...
regpasha1-320-55838810 March 2021
Dean Stockwell is wonderful in this film. It is a bit disconcerting that the dialogue coach was unable to coach more authentic Scots accents out of the major characters in this movie.
Those that make the attempt are quite awful .
Par for the course in those days .
The love of medicine and science
bkoganbing24 January 2016
I have some strong disagreement with the category of nomination for Charles Coburn here. Most definitely he was not in a supporting role, in fact in a cast of fine players he dominates the film as the rascally old grandfather first to Dean Stockwell and then to Tom Drake in The Green Years.
It seems like A.J. Cronin can't write a novel that won't be turned into a fine film like The Citadel and The Keys Of The Kingdom. As a writer Cronin successfully blended medicine and religion into his work in Great Britain the same as Lloyd C. Douglas on this side of the pond in Magnificent Obsession.
In this story Cronin talks about the love of medicine and science acquired at an early age. Except possibly for The Boy With Green Hair I don't think Dean Stockwell was ever more appealing on the big screen. Seems like his mother ran off with of all things an Irishman and both are dead now. So young Stockwell is taken in by his Scot relative more as an obligation than anything else. They are a thrifty lot and that's putting it mildly.
The one who Stockwell bonds with is his grandfather Coburn. He's quite the rogue and known to take a dram or three with his buddies at the tavern. But he's got more character than the rest of the family put together. Eventually when Stockwell grows up to be Tom Drake and looks to be failing in his ambitions, it's Coburn who proves to be his salvation.
The Green Years hasn't lost one inch of charm and values and it's a year older than I am. Still wonderful family viewing. Scotland pre World War II is captured beautifully here with cinematography that gained the film it's only other Oscar nomination.
Poor Coburn and his fellow nominees were screwed by the Academy that year as they awarded a special Oscar to Harold Russell for his performance as the armless sailor in The Best Years Of Our Lives and then had him compete in the Best Supporting Actor category. Coburn and his fellow competitors William Demarest, Clifton Webb, and Claude Rains were at a very unfair disadvantage to Harold Russell.
Not a film to be missed for family viewing time.
It seems like A.J. Cronin can't write a novel that won't be turned into a fine film like The Citadel and The Keys Of The Kingdom. As a writer Cronin successfully blended medicine and religion into his work in Great Britain the same as Lloyd C. Douglas on this side of the pond in Magnificent Obsession.
In this story Cronin talks about the love of medicine and science acquired at an early age. Except possibly for The Boy With Green Hair I don't think Dean Stockwell was ever more appealing on the big screen. Seems like his mother ran off with of all things an Irishman and both are dead now. So young Stockwell is taken in by his Scot relative more as an obligation than anything else. They are a thrifty lot and that's putting it mildly.
The one who Stockwell bonds with is his grandfather Coburn. He's quite the rogue and known to take a dram or three with his buddies at the tavern. But he's got more character than the rest of the family put together. Eventually when Stockwell grows up to be Tom Drake and looks to be failing in his ambitions, it's Coburn who proves to be his salvation.
The Green Years hasn't lost one inch of charm and values and it's a year older than I am. Still wonderful family viewing. Scotland pre World War II is captured beautifully here with cinematography that gained the film it's only other Oscar nomination.
Poor Coburn and his fellow nominees were screwed by the Academy that year as they awarded a special Oscar to Harold Russell for his performance as the armless sailor in The Best Years Of Our Lives and then had him compete in the Best Supporting Actor category. Coburn and his fellow competitors William Demarest, Clifton Webb, and Claude Rains were at a very unfair disadvantage to Harold Russell.
Not a film to be missed for family viewing time.
inspirational
jkiing10 June 2000
Very inspirational story about a poor young ? Scottish boys efforts to get into medical school. Although I enjoyed it very much, I note that the movie has never be released on VHS. Unhappily it is not considered one of the classic greats and is forever gotten confused with 'How green is my valley'
Superb story and wonderful performance by Charles Coburn
vincentlynch-moonoi23 October 2015
Warning: Spoilers
I don't know why, but I've never cared much for most films about Scotland. Oh, there are a few rare exceptions, but there's just something about Scotland that turns me off...usually big time. But this one such exceptional film.And what makes it exceptional, more than anything else, is the strength of the performances.
Charles Coburn, one of my favorite character actors, was almost always a gem. But here is his tour de force. Coburn was nominated for an Academy Award for this performance, and deservedly so. I would say he's charming here, but that word just doesn't do it. Quite remarkable.
Dean Stockwell (now nearly 80 years old) plays the main focus of the story as a young boy. Perhaps the best of the child actors of that era, he doesn't disappoint here.
Gladys Cooper, another venerable character actor, plays the estranged wife of Coburn, and she's almost unrecognizable. Another stellar performance.
Selena Royle plays the "mother" of the household; Royle was, supposedly, romantically involved with Spencer Tracy at one time.
Hume Cronyn, actually a very versatile character actor, plays the "father" of the household. Another fine performance, even though his character is sort of the cheapskate type. His real wife -- Jessica Tandy -- plays his younger sister here.
About halfway through the film, the young boy turns into a young man, played by Tom Drake. Drake has a difficult time following young Stockwell in the role, but he does alright.
Richard Haydn, whose career often careened into nearly embarrassing roles, is actually very good here as the school master.
I can't think of a thing to criticize here. A superb film, though perhaps not for everyone...but highly recommended.
Charles Coburn, one of my favorite character actors, was almost always a gem. But here is his tour de force. Coburn was nominated for an Academy Award for this performance, and deservedly so. I would say he's charming here, but that word just doesn't do it. Quite remarkable.
Dean Stockwell (now nearly 80 years old) plays the main focus of the story as a young boy. Perhaps the best of the child actors of that era, he doesn't disappoint here.
Gladys Cooper, another venerable character actor, plays the estranged wife of Coburn, and she's almost unrecognizable. Another stellar performance.
Selena Royle plays the "mother" of the household; Royle was, supposedly, romantically involved with Spencer Tracy at one time.
Hume Cronyn, actually a very versatile character actor, plays the "father" of the household. Another fine performance, even though his character is sort of the cheapskate type. His real wife -- Jessica Tandy -- plays his younger sister here.
About halfway through the film, the young boy turns into a young man, played by Tom Drake. Drake has a difficult time following young Stockwell in the role, but he does alright.
Richard Haydn, whose career often careened into nearly embarrassing roles, is actually very good here as the school master.
I can't think of a thing to criticize here. A superb film, though perhaps not for everyone...but highly recommended.
Life-affirming but average drama as orphan experiences the school of hard knocks guided by his curmudgeon great-grandfather
Turfseer23 March 2023
Warning: Spoilers
Set initially in a turn-of-the century village in Scotland, The Green Years is the story of an orphan, Robert Shannon, who comes to live with his extended family following the death of his outcast mother who ran away to Ireland with a man his family did not approve of.
Robert is played by Dean Stockwell as a child and Tom Drake as a young adult. The patriarch of the family is Alexander Gow (Charles Coburn) who is referred to as "Grandpa" by the family members but is a maternal great-grandfather to little Robert.
Also in the mix is Gladys Cooper as paternal Grandma Leche who is constantly butting heads with "grandpa" Alexander over the proper way to raise little Robert. Hume Cronyn plays Papa, the father of adult children, one of whom is Kate played by his real-life wife Jessica Tandy. Papa's wife is referred to as "Mama" (Selena Royle).
There are a few other family members who don't figure into the plot as much.
The Green Years has two themes that define it as a life-affirming drama. First is the idea that it always good to have supportive friends and family in your corner. As a child, Grandpa teaches Robert how to box to defend himself from bullies at school.
Later Robert's childhood schoolteacher helps him to prepare for a contest in which he attempts to win a scholarship to medical school.
The other theme is life is not easy and there are obstacles along the way. Robert's plans are dashed when he comes down with pneumonia right before the last examination for the scholarship. Even more devastating is the death of Robert's best friend who gets his foot caught on a railroad track and run over by a train.
Despite the protagonist's fortitude, The Green Years is awfully slow-moving with side plots that are hardly engaging. This is especially true of Robert's love interest Alison (Beverly Tyler) who gets to sing a few songs but does not figure into the main plot after going off to study music.
Charles Coburn is unrecognizable in his beard and is only mildly amusing as a curmudgeon and alcoholic who gives good advice to Robert.
And Hume Cronyn has a thankless role as a penny pinching civil servant who is at odds with a more well-to-do brother living in London.
After all his trials, Robert finally gets to go to medical school after Grandpa deeds him the proceeds of an insurance policy following his death. The Green Years can best be classified as "average drama" in comparison to other more successful films of its era.
Robert is played by Dean Stockwell as a child and Tom Drake as a young adult. The patriarch of the family is Alexander Gow (Charles Coburn) who is referred to as "Grandpa" by the family members but is a maternal great-grandfather to little Robert.
Also in the mix is Gladys Cooper as paternal Grandma Leche who is constantly butting heads with "grandpa" Alexander over the proper way to raise little Robert. Hume Cronyn plays Papa, the father of adult children, one of whom is Kate played by his real-life wife Jessica Tandy. Papa's wife is referred to as "Mama" (Selena Royle).
There are a few other family members who don't figure into the plot as much.
The Green Years has two themes that define it as a life-affirming drama. First is the idea that it always good to have supportive friends and family in your corner. As a child, Grandpa teaches Robert how to box to defend himself from bullies at school.
Later Robert's childhood schoolteacher helps him to prepare for a contest in which he attempts to win a scholarship to medical school.
The other theme is life is not easy and there are obstacles along the way. Robert's plans are dashed when he comes down with pneumonia right before the last examination for the scholarship. Even more devastating is the death of Robert's best friend who gets his foot caught on a railroad track and run over by a train.
Despite the protagonist's fortitude, The Green Years is awfully slow-moving with side plots that are hardly engaging. This is especially true of Robert's love interest Alison (Beverly Tyler) who gets to sing a few songs but does not figure into the main plot after going off to study music.
Charles Coburn is unrecognizable in his beard and is only mildly amusing as a curmudgeon and alcoholic who gives good advice to Robert.
And Hume Cronyn has a thankless role as a penny pinching civil servant who is at odds with a more well-to-do brother living in London.
After all his trials, Robert finally gets to go to medical school after Grandpa deeds him the proceeds of an insurance policy following his death. The Green Years can best be classified as "average drama" in comparison to other more successful films of its era.
Faith and Love: Life's Sustaining Qualities
dbrayshaw22 February 2020
I just watched this fine movie for my first time in 2020, seventy-four years after its production. How is it that it has escaped my notice for these many decades?
Without a doubt, every actor was perfectly selected to play their parts and speak their lines, all of which filled the screen an honest purity of heart. It swept away my heart by its feeling of goodness despite the unveiling of tragic sorrows.
Tom Drake's portrayal of Robert Shannon taught me how very possible it is to maintain civility and charm even while assaults against one's dreams keep attacking at every angle. First off, he kept his faith, even after great tribulation.
My eyes teared throughout most of the movie because of the honesty, decency and kindness that accompanied the words spoken by Robert and others who surrounded his life. The hardest of life's questions and difficulties were no match for his faith in God, and his love for Alison Keith (Beverly Tyler) was never diminished, even for a second, throughout those hard times.
Why this movie did not receive an Oscar is beyond me. It deserves every bit to be esteemed as highly as possible.
Without a doubt, every actor was perfectly selected to play their parts and speak their lines, all of which filled the screen an honest purity of heart. It swept away my heart by its feeling of goodness despite the unveiling of tragic sorrows.
Tom Drake's portrayal of Robert Shannon taught me how very possible it is to maintain civility and charm even while assaults against one's dreams keep attacking at every angle. First off, he kept his faith, even after great tribulation.
My eyes teared throughout most of the movie because of the honesty, decency and kindness that accompanied the words spoken by Robert and others who surrounded his life. The hardest of life's questions and difficulties were no match for his faith in God, and his love for Alison Keith (Beverly Tyler) was never diminished, even for a second, throughout those hard times.
Why this movie did not receive an Oscar is beyond me. It deserves every bit to be esteemed as highly as possible.
A Great Character Actor In Perhaps His Most Splendid Role!
malvernp10 March 2021
The year is 1946. The general subject is the Academy Awards Best Supporting Actor category. The issue is the often unfairness of granting awards when the competition is very close and also when the substantial performance being discussed is more like a Best Actor role rather than one in the Supporting Actor category. The specific subject is Charles Coburn's great presentation in a singularly unknown film of that year entitled The Green Years (TGY).
TGY is a sentimental period family drama from MGM that is truly representative of that studio and era. It is a warm, carefully crafted story from the pen of A. J. Cronin that traces the rite of passage for a poor boy to young manhood. Along the way, he is greatly influenced by the close and deep relationship forged with his great-grandfather--beautifully played by Charles Coburn in one of his most enjoyable and nuanced roles. It is the major part in the film--and might be more accurately described as a "Best Actor" performance but for the fact that Coburn is generally known as a character actor rather than a leading man.
In a different year, Coburn might have gotten an Oscar for this lovely performance--hands down. But we are talking about 1946--the year of The Best Years Of Our Lives and the unique part played in it by Harold Russell as the disabled veteran returning home from WWII to a world he doesn't fully understand and the girl he fears will not accept him as he now is. TGY and Coburn never had a chance. TGY is barely remembered today--and Coburn's endearing role is similarly an often forgotten memory for most people.
I strongly urge folks who are fans of warm old fashioned story telling and classic character acting to seek out TGY, and absorb the many charms of this film in general and the achievement of Charles Coburn in particular. You will not be disappointed. He is truly remarkable.
TGY is a sentimental period family drama from MGM that is truly representative of that studio and era. It is a warm, carefully crafted story from the pen of A. J. Cronin that traces the rite of passage for a poor boy to young manhood. Along the way, he is greatly influenced by the close and deep relationship forged with his great-grandfather--beautifully played by Charles Coburn in one of his most enjoyable and nuanced roles. It is the major part in the film--and might be more accurately described as a "Best Actor" performance but for the fact that Coburn is generally known as a character actor rather than a leading man.
In a different year, Coburn might have gotten an Oscar for this lovely performance--hands down. But we are talking about 1946--the year of The Best Years Of Our Lives and the unique part played in it by Harold Russell as the disabled veteran returning home from WWII to a world he doesn't fully understand and the girl he fears will not accept him as he now is. TGY and Coburn never had a chance. TGY is barely remembered today--and Coburn's endearing role is similarly an often forgotten memory for most people.
I strongly urge folks who are fans of warm old fashioned story telling and classic character acting to seek out TGY, and absorb the many charms of this film in general and the achievement of Charles Coburn in particular. You will not be disappointed. He is truly remarkable.
Irish Catholic lad growing up in Proestand Scotland.
moran-788458 April 2021
Dean Stockwell and Charles Coburn makeup an outstanding team in "The Green Years." Dean plays Robbie Shannon, an orphaned Irish child, who is sent to Scotland to live with his deceased mother's austere Scottish family. His Irish ethnicity, as well as his Roman Catholic faith, prove to be burdensome until his old grandfather teaches him to stand his ground and be a man. The boy later on uses an inheritance from his grandfather to pay for his medical student fees. A very enchanting coming of age tale.
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