Life Begins for Andy Hardy (1941)

Life Begins for Andy Hardy Poster

With his high school graduation behind him, Andy Hardy decides that as an adult, it's time to start living his life. Judge Hardy had hoped that his son would go to college and study law, but Andy isn't sure that's what he wants to do so he heads off to New York City to find a job. Too proud to accept any help from Betsy Booth, Andy finds that living on his own isn't so easy. With perseverance he eventually finds a job and even gets to date the pretty receptionist in his office. He also has to face several of life's lessons leading him to conclude that he may still have a bit of growing up to do.

Overview
"Life Begins for Andy Hardy" is a 1941 American comedy-drama movie directed by George B. Seitz. It's the twelfth film in the popular "Andy Hardy" series of movies, including Mickey Rooney in the titular function. The film also stars Lewis Stone, Judy Garland, and Ann Rutherford.

Plot Summary
"Life Begins for Andy Hardy" gets where the previous film ended, with Andy Hardy graduating from high school and embarking on a brand-new chapter of his life. Against the recommendations of his father, Judge Hardy (Lewis Stone), Andy declines a college scholarship to pursue a profession in organization in New York City, where he thinks he can make a significant amount of cash in a short time. He quickly finds work as a typist at a tin can company, however life in the big city proves to be more tough and less attractive than he initially assumed.

During this time, Andy ends up being smitten with the gorgeous, but materialistic office employee, Sheila (Patricia Dane). Sheila successfully controls the ignorant Andy, leading him to extravagant spending and participation in service schemes out of his league. When he understands he's falling into debt and losing control over his life, Andy gets a wake-up call about the realities of their adult years.

Judy Garland's Role
Rising star Judy Garland plays the role of Betsy Booth in this installation of the series. Betsy, Andy's youth buddy, follows him out to New York and tries to conserve Andy from Sheila's manipulations. Despite facing rebuffs and rejection, Betsy remains devoted, assisting to guide Andy back onto the ideal path. Hollywood starlet Lana Turner is drafted into the movie, with Betsy Booth landing a film gig and taking Andy as her guest at a luxurious Hollywood celebration. Both Judy Garland's performance and musical numbers are one of the highlights of the film.

Resolution
In a humbling turn of events, Andy is fired from his job and returns house bankrupt, recognizing the folly of his immature ambitions. His daddy, though disappointed, warmly welcomes him back house. The 2 have a heart-to-heart talk where Judge Hardy councils Andy about the realities of life, work, obligations, and their adult years. In the end, with Betsy's assistance, Andy realizes his error in overlooking her in favor of Sheila and undoubtedly how much he enjoys her. He also decides to take the college scholarship, acknowledging the worth of education.

Themes and Reception
"Life Begins for Andy Hardy" delighted audiences and critics alike, with its blend of drama, humor, love, and life lessons. The film centers on styles of maturing and the exploration of success, much beyond wealth. It stresses the value of education, understanding the effects of one's, and the value of loyalty, genuineness, and house. The motion picture became the highest grossing in the "Andy Hardy" series. Mickey Rooney's charming performance paired with Judy Garland's musical radiance, was significantly acclaimed, raising the entire property of the plot.

In conclusion, "Life Begins for Andy Hardy" is an ageless tale of a boy's eye-opening journey from adolescence to the adult years, as well as a timeless movie in the "Andy Hardy" series. Its long-lasting popularity attests to its importance and relatability, even today.

Top Cast

  • Lewis Stone (small)
    Lewis Stone
    Judge Hardy
  • Mickey Rooney (small)
    Mickey Rooney
    Andy Hardy
  • Judy Garland (small)
    Judy Garland
    Betsy Booth
  • Fay Holden (small)
    Fay Holden
    Emily Hardy
  • Ann Rutherford (small)
    Ann Rutherford
    Polly Benedict
  • Sara Haden (small)
    Sara Haden
    Milly Forrest
  • Patricia Dane (small)
    Patricia Dane
    Jennitt Hicks
  • Ray McDonald (small)
    Ray McDonald
    Jimmy Frobisher