This MGM feature is loaded with talent, but short on inspiration. Mike Perrivale (Gong Club laugh line Keefe Braselle) is a cub reporter tired of getting sent to cover ladies luncheons when much bigger stories beckon. His inspiration is his dying high school teacher Mr. Trimble (Lionel Barrymore in his penultimate film), and eventually Mike gets the scoop he's been looking for. Like many MGM features from the period, there's a palpable air of 'don't blacklist us' patriotism pervading Bannerline, and the film ends with the stirring Battle Hymn of the Republic playing over the credits. This predictable drama offers no thrills but will be enjoyed by fans of Barrymore and Spring Byington.
Review of Bannerline
