New York janitor Gene Lockhart (as Pat Cosgrave) spends his advanced years dreaming about his home in Ireland, and playing the "Lucky Dollars" newspaper game. If he matches the paper's daily serial number with a bill, Mr. Lockhart will win the $500.00 jackpot. Then, he could afford a return to Ireland once before he dies. Lockhart has developed a grandfatherly interest in young stockroom worker James Dean (as Joey Frazier), and his poor family. Mr. Dean's baby son has asthma, which keeps him up at night, and, unfortunately, earns him "dock time" at work. Heavily in debt, Dean can't afford to fill a $9.00 prescription for his son.
When the time comes for the men to collect their pay, Lockhart rushes to match his dollars' serial numbers to those in the paper. Meanwhile, hoping for a lucky break, Dean risks his wages in a poker game, with and the other workmen
"The Bells of Cockaigne" is a short, simple, and sweet little drama. Lockhart (actress June's father) is an absolute delight, and Dean plays his role exceptionally well. They are helped by writer George Lowther's excellent, well-paced story; the little "heart tug" at the end reaches just the right level of sentimentality. Versatile Vaughn Taylor (as Jonesy) excels in support. Karl Lukas (as Kreuger), John Dennis (as Rivnock), and future "Mod Squad" boss Tige Andrews (as Sam) can be seen among the stockroom workers. And, if you're looking for a fit young Dean in shirtless scenes, this kinescope's a good get.
******* The Bells of Cockaigne (11/17/53) James Sheldon ~ Gene Lockhart, James Dean, Vaughn Taylor
When the time comes for the men to collect their pay, Lockhart rushes to match his dollars' serial numbers to those in the paper. Meanwhile, hoping for a lucky break, Dean risks his wages in a poker game, with and the other workmen
"The Bells of Cockaigne" is a short, simple, and sweet little drama. Lockhart (actress June's father) is an absolute delight, and Dean plays his role exceptionally well. They are helped by writer George Lowther's excellent, well-paced story; the little "heart tug" at the end reaches just the right level of sentimentality. Versatile Vaughn Taylor (as Jonesy) excels in support. Karl Lukas (as Kreuger), John Dennis (as Rivnock), and future "Mod Squad" boss Tige Andrews (as Sam) can be seen among the stockroom workers. And, if you're looking for a fit young Dean in shirtless scenes, this kinescope's a good get.
******* The Bells of Cockaigne (11/17/53) James Sheldon ~ Gene Lockhart, James Dean, Vaughn Taylor