When I Grow Up (1951)

"Danny" (Bobby Driscoll) lives with his dad (Harry Morgan) and mum (Elisabeth Fraser) but isn't especially happy. Indeed, he feels neglected and determines to leave home and chance his arm in the outside world. Before he hits the road, though, he discovers an old diary written by his grandpa (Charley Grapewin) that details the trials and tribulation of his own youth - and tells of his desire to flee with his best pal "Duckface" (John Wilder) and join the circus. It's very hard work and the youngsters are largely ignored by the staff except, that is, for the clown "Bobo" (Poodles Hanneford) who promises to go into business with them if they make it big. Sadly, the 1890s wasn't the healthiest of times to live and when typhoid hits the town, it puts a great deal in perspective and back in 1950s America, it reminds the young "Danny" that maybe life could be quite a bit worse and maybe he ought to count his blessings? There's something really quite touching about the Driscoll effort(s) in this film as he skips from the older to the more modern character effortlessly and engagingly. It's quite a telling story of grass being greener, but also of childhood - and of the dreams we all had before life got us by the scruff of the neck. There's also quite a strong effort from both Robert Preston and Martha Scott as the 19th century parents facing a not dissimilar problem rearing a lad full of spark and ambition only without electricity and with more distracting elephants. It's simplicity is affecting and it's well worth a watch.