Journey for Margaret

This is a very interesting film, because it was released in 1942--not long after America entered the war--but it takes place in 1940 and 1941, so audiences had just lived through the events that were the background for the film's action. And they knew some of what was to come after the final scene in the movie.

Robert Young and Laraine Day are a young married couple who have been "on the scene", we might say, as the Nazis have invaded and threatened much of Europe. As the film opens, they have moved to London, where the city is under constant threat of bombardment. Their greatest desire is to have a child. In essence, they seek normalcy in a world where people have become accustomed to war, i.e. they are perpetually afraid.

I can only imagine how much viewers in 1942 identified with the characters in this film. Wishing to bring children into a safe world is such a visceral, universal desire. Later in the film, Robert Young is confronted with an emotional choice that surely tugged at the heartstrings of all who watched. And the ending of the film is a scene that brilliantly involves the emotions of viewers via a graphic representation of the horror of war. No doubt it inspired many to buck up with its hopeful message--as films of the day were designed to do.

Robert Young is strong in his role as the husband who is strong for his wife. Laraine Day is inspiring as the wife, though her part is limited. The two children (including Margaret O'Brien in her first credited role) are delightful.