Journey for Margaret (1942)

Journey for Margaret Poster

An American newspaperman and his wife, end up in London after several retreats in the opening days of WWII. After a shrapnel wound and loss of her baby she returns to America. War weary, he is forced to do a story about war orphans, where he meets Margaret.

Introduction
"Journey for Margaret" is a heartfelt drama war film that was produced in 1942, directed by W.S. Van Dyke. The movie includes stars like Robert Young, Laraine Day, Fay Bainter, Nigel Bruce, and Margaret O'Brien. The movie script was written by William Ludwig and based upon an unique by William Lindsay White.

Story
The film follows the story of John Davis, played by Robert Young, an American war correspondent in London during the destructive blitz of World War II. His other half Nora, represented by Laraine Day, was expecting their very first kid. Sadly, she loses the baby throughout a battle raid and ends up being emotionally unsteady. Consequently due to health issues, she is recommended to go back to America.

As the traumatic occasions unfold, John, who is discouraged by the loss and stays behind in London, experiences Margaret and Peter, two orphaned children affected by war. Margaret, a five-year-old played by Margaret O'Brien, is disoriented and does not remember her unpaid to the shock of the battles. On the other hand, Peter is a cheeky young boy who is smart beyond his years due to his distressing experiences.

Character Evolution
John is deeply moved by the intricacy and vulnerability of these children. Initially reluctant, he grows fond of them, relating their loss to his own. Margaret brings out his fatherly instincts and her endearing nature compels him to safeguard her. On the other hand, his relationship with Peter also grows. The bond he shares with these kids, fills his own space and gives him a sense of function.

Nevertheless, amidst the chaos of the war and administrative red tape, he faces difficulties in precisely documenting their stories and has a hard time in his war reports. Roiled by his experiences with the children, he decides to embrace them, for this reason embarking on a journey to bring Margaret and Peter to America.

Climax & Conclusion
Unfortunately, while doing so, he discovers that just Margaret is eligible for adoption, due to the fact that there are questions around Peter's parentage due to incomplete records. Despite the heart-breaking news, he chooses to continue and ensure that at least one child is minimized from the horrors of the continuous war.

In a touching end scene, Nora and John welcome Margaret in America with open hearts. Although initially Acted coldly, Nora ultimately heats up to Margaret as she begins to comprehend the kid's scenario, and the film ends gladly with the promise of a brand-new life for Margaret.

Conclusion
"Journey for Margaret" is a poignant and psychological film that represented the harmful effects of war, particularly on children. It presented a compelling exploration of loss, anguish, empathy, and ultimately, hope. Its powerful storytelling, expressive efficiencies (specifically by Margaret O'Brien), and its exploration of universal emotions set versus the backdrop of war make it a memorable war-drama movie from the '40s. Although embeded in a grim truth, it's eventually an uplifting tale of durability and love.

Top Cast

  • Robert Young (small)
    Robert Young
    John Davis
  • Laraine Day (small)
    Laraine Day
    Nora Davis
  • Fay Bainter (small)
    Fay Bainter
    Trudy Strauss
  • Nigel Bruce (small)
    Nigel Bruce
    Herbert V. Allison
  • Margaret O'Brien (small)
    Margaret O'Brien
    Margaret
  • William Severn (small)
    William Severn
    Peter
  • Elisabeth Risdon (small)
    Elisabeth Risdon
    Mrs. Bailey
  • Doris Lloyd (small)
    Doris Lloyd
    Mrs. Barrie
  • Halliwell Hobbes (small)
    Halliwell Hobbes
    Mr. Barrie
  • Heather Thatcher (small)
    Heather Thatcher
    Mrs. Harris
  • Jill Esmond (small)
    Jill Esmond
    Susan Fleming