This is definitely a wonderful change of pace for John Wayne. He is a wonderfully, sympathetic character here and he gets great supporting work from Charles Coburn, Sherry Jackson, Marie Windsor and others.
When St. Anthony's College is threatened with closure due to failing finances, the rector of the college, played with dignity, reverence and a bit of humor by the fabulous Charles Coburn, the latter enlists the help of a down and out football coach (Wayne) who is in the midst of a custody battle with his wife over the child she walked out on years ago.
Sherry Jackson certainly makes room for this daddy in this film. She would later play Danny Thomas's daughter in that much beloved television series of that name.
The ending may not be to everyone's liking but this is definitely a heartwarming tale of a head priest admitting that he has been selfish, the problems associated with college football, but a myriad of warm, personal relationships.
Donna Reed is also great as the social worker who finally sees Wayne for the good man he really is.
I wish that John Wayne had made more pictures like this.
When St. Anthony's College is threatened with closure due to failing finances, the rector of the college, played with dignity, reverence and a bit of humor by the fabulous Charles Coburn, the latter enlists the help of a down and out football coach (Wayne) who is in the midst of a custody battle with his wife over the child she walked out on years ago.
Sherry Jackson certainly makes room for this daddy in this film. She would later play Danny Thomas's daughter in that much beloved television series of that name.
The ending may not be to everyone's liking but this is definitely a heartwarming tale of a head priest admitting that he has been selfish, the problems associated with college football, but a myriad of warm, personal relationships.
Donna Reed is also great as the social worker who finally sees Wayne for the good man he really is.
I wish that John Wayne had made more pictures like this.