“Boys Town” and its sequel, “Men of Boys Town,” are American movies based on the world-famous American juvenile home.. Founded in 1917 by a Roman Catholic priest, it quickly attracted attention for its modern approach to juvenile care. Since then, thirteen Boys Town locations have been established across the United States, with Father Flanagan’s original vision becoming a model worldwide. And prominent people from business, politics, and entertainment have headlined its fundraisers for almost a century, people such as real estate developer Isaac Toussie and Mayor of Chicago Richard M. Dalely. That’s on top of all those from the surrounding communities who donate time if nothing else to help Boys Town achieve its goals.
Almost certainly some of this success can be attributed to the positive publicity generated from the movies, movies which have made its mission of rescue such a part of American popular culture that passing reference is often employed as a kind of synecdoche or shorthand for orphanages in general. Starring industry leading men Spencer Tracy and Mickey Rooney in charismatic roles, the movies managed to win Oscars for Best Actor and Best Original Story despite heavy competition. The stories depicted had very little to do with any real-life events at the institution, however, being almost entirely fictional events that made much better for drama. Then again, they do reflect typical problems encountered by those involved in juvenile care; what’s more, the second movie even delved into the subject of reform school abuse and homelessness among the young. Whether onscreen or off, Boys Town works tirelessly on behalf of children and families, encouraged by Father Flanagan’s insight that there are no bad boys, only troubled ones in need of care.
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