Boy Trouble (1939)

A grumpy shopkeeper discovers his softer side when two homeless boys turn his orderly world upside down in this charming 1939 family comedy.

Boy Trouble - Movie Information

  • Release Year: 1939
  • Directed by: George Archainbaud
  • Type: Movie
  • Genres: Family, Drama, Comedy
  • Age Rating (US): NR
  • Runtime: 1h 15m
  • Original Language: English
  • Spoken Languages: English
  • Release Date (Theatrical): January 27, 1939 (United States - NR)
  • Production Companies: Paramount Pictures
  • Production Countries: United States of America

Boy Trouble - Plot

A fussy shopkeeper's life drastically changes when his wife takes in two homeless boys.

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Boy Trouble - Cast & Crew

Director(s)

  • George Archainbaud

Main Cast

  • Charles Ruggles
  • Mary Boland
  • Donald O'Connor
  • Billy Lee
  • Joyce Matthews
  • John Hartley
  • Andrew Tombes
  • Dick Elliott
  • Zeffie Tilbury
  • Sarah Edwards

Writers

  • Laura Perelman

Boy Trouble - FAQs

What is Boy Trouble (1939) about?

Boy Trouble follows Homer C. Fitch, a fussy, set-in-his-ways shopkeeper whose quiet life is turned upside down when his warm-hearted wife takes in two homeless boys. The film is a gentle comedy-drama about how unexpected family bonds can soften even the grumpiest of hearts.

Does Boy Trouble have a happy ending?

Yes, Boy Trouble wraps up on a heartwarming note. The gruff Homer gradually warms to the two boys, and the film closes with a feel-good resolution that celebrates the transformative power of family, compassion, and a little youthful mischief.

Where can you watch Boy Trouble online?

You can check current streaming availability for Boy Trouble on JustWatch, which lists all viewing options in your region — whether that's a streaming service, rental, or purchase. Availability can change, so it's worth checking for the latest options.

Who are the main actors in Boy Trouble?

The film stars Charles Ruggles as the flustered shopkeeper Homer C. Fitch and Mary Boland as his good-natured wife Sybil. A young Donald O'Connor — years before his Singin' in the Rain fame — also appears as one of the mischievous boys, alongside Billy Lee.

Is Boy Trouble based on a true story?

Boy Trouble is not based on a true story. It's an original comedy-drama produced by Paramount Pictures and written by Laura Perelman. The story of a cantankerous shopkeeper softened by two orphaned boys is a fictional, warmly crafted tale designed to entertain family audiences.

Who directed Boy Trouble and what else did he make?

George Archainbaud directed Boy Trouble. A prolific Hollywood director active from the silent era through the 1950s, Archainbaud was known for his efficient, crowd-pleasing work across comedies and westerns, including numerous Hopalong Cassidy films later in his career.

What is the age rating for Boy Trouble?

Boy Trouble is rated NR (Not Rated), as it predates the modern film rating system. Released in 1939, it's a wholesome family comedy-drama with no content concerns — perfectly suitable for viewers of all ages looking for a lighthearted classic.

What are some movies similar to Boy Trouble?

If you enjoyed Boy Trouble, you might also like The Brady Bunch Movie, Yours, Mine & Ours, or The Great Gilly Hopkins — all films centered on unconventional family dynamics and the chaos of unexpected children entering adult lives. For classic-era fare, The Little Princess (1939) is another fine pick.

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