William A. Wellman directed two topical films about the Depression for Warner Bros., both semi-documentary in tone. This stark narrative follows boys from impoverished families (and a girl, played by dancer Dorothy Coonan, Wellman's fourth and final wife) on their hungry journey. Wonderful photography and sincere acting make this film enjoyable despite the grim subject matter. The optimistic ending resounds with hopeful New Deal rhetoric.
First National Pictures, Inc. Director: William A. Wellman. Screenwriter: Earl Baldwin. Cinematography: Arthur L. Todd. Editor: Thomas Pratt. With: Frankie Darro, Edwin Phillips, Rochelle Hudson, Dorothy Coonan, Sterling Holloway, Arthur Hohl. 35mm, b/w, 69 min.
