Going My Way

Youthful Father Chuck O'Malley led a colorful life of sports, song, and romance before joining the Roman Catholic clergy, but his level gaze and twinkling eyes make it clear that he knows he made the right choice. After joining a parish, O'Malley's worldly knowledge helps him connect with a gang of kids looking for direction and handle the business details of the church-building fund, winning over his aging, conventional superior, Father Fitzgibbon. So, this is a role Bing Crosby had a few times... and it seems odd, a man who liked to golf with gangsters playing a Catholic priest. But maybe that makes sense, especially for the kind of priest he plays. He sees the value in helping the downtrodden and "lesser" members of society. That is a true hero. This also happens to be a very musical film, again not surprising given Bing's history. But in it we also mix street kids singing, an opera and even a classic Irish song.

Poignant and deeply moving best describe this Oscar winning film of 1944. Progressive Priest, Father O'Malley, is sent to a run-down parish to improve things. There he meets the conservative priest, played in a memorable performance, by Barry Fitzgerald. The two will come into conflict. O'Malley will deal with an abundance of church problems. He helps deprived children. His rendition of the songs Going My Way and Swinging on a Star is memorable. The latter won the best song of the year award. As the loving fathers, both Crosby and Fitzgerald won Oscars in the best acting and supporting acting categories. Interestingly, Fitzgerald had been nominated for best actor as well. The ending will not allow for a dry eye in the house. That is guaranteed. There is poverty all around but love conquers that. O'Malley quietly leaving the parish for his next assignment is memorable as well.