I usually hate the 'Pete Smith Specialty' films--mostly because the humor seems very forced. However, this one is great--mostly because it's NOT a comedy!! The film is an interesting story about Ben Helwig. Of course he's not a household name but his story is very inspiring and interesting. It seems that Ben received a tragic head injury when he was a kid and soon went blind. This is not the end of the story, naturally, and what happens next is very inspiring and worth your time. I won't say more--just see this one. Very intelligently written and directed.
By the way, a couple things to note. First, Spanky Mac Farland took a break from the Our Gang films in the 40s and tried his hand in a few other films--including this one. Sadly, the narrator referred to him as 'Fatty'...nice, huh? Also, I have no idea why, but the adult Helwig was NOT played by Helwig and I'd sure love to know why.
By the way, a couple things to note. First, Spanky Mac Farland took a break from the Our Gang films in the 40s and tried his hand in a few other films--including this one. Sadly, the narrator referred to him as 'Fatty'...nice, huh? Also, I have no idea why, but the adult Helwig was NOT played by Helwig and I'd sure love to know why.