Home Town Story follows Blake Washburn, a former U.S. senator who returns to his small hometown to run the local newspaper after losing re-election. Determined to expose corporate corruption, he uses his editorial power to attack big business. However, his perspective begins to change when a mining accident and subsequent rescue effort reveal the role of large corporations in supporting communities and saving lives.
Genre: Drama
Director: Arthur Pierson
Arthur Pierson (1901–1975) was an American actor, screenwriter, and director. He began his career on the stage and in early film roles before moving behind the camera. Pierson directed only a handful of films, with Home Town Story being the most notable. After a brief stint in directing, he transitioned into television and later worked in executive roles at animation studios, including a key position at Hanna-Barbera.
Star Cast:
- Jeffrey Lynn as Blake Washburn
- Donald Crisp as John MacFarland
- Marjorie Reynolds as Janice Hunt
- Marilyn Monroe as Iris Martin
- Alan Hale Jr. as Slim Haskins
- Barbara Brown as Mrs. Washburn
Home Town Story received mixed reviews upon its release. While some viewers appreciated its patriotic message and straightforward storytelling, others found it overly didactic and simplistic in its portrayal of big business. The film is often remembered today primarily for Marilyn Monroe’s early appearance, which has garnered retrospective attention.
Fun Facts:
- Home Town Story is one of Marilyn Monroe’s earliest credited roles, appearing just before her breakout performances in the early 1950s.
- The film was partially funded by General Motors and intended as a pro-industry message highlighting the positive contributions of big corporations.
- Director Arthur Pierson made only a few films before leaving directing for a successful career in television and animation production.
- The film’s pro-business message was unusual for Hollywood at the time, as many postwar dramas leaned toward populist or critical portrayals of industry.
- Donald Crisp, who plays the industrialist, was a veteran actor and Oscar winner, known for roles in classics like How Green Was My Valley.
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