In this sequel (though written first) to "Going My Way", everyone's favorite genial priest (Bing Crosby) is off to another parish to do good. This time, it's to a poor parish with a school that is in jeopardy of being closed. Can Bing charm everyone once again, solve all the problems AND manage to make Jews, Agnostics and Protestants not feel terribly uncomfortable?!
"The Bells of St. Mary's" is an enjoyable film, I am not denying that. However, if you look at its score on IMDb, you'd think it's about as good as its predecessor, "Going My Way"--well, it clearly isn't. There are so many reasons I prefer "Going My Way" and I fortunately was able to see both films only a couple weeks apart, so my memory of each is clear. First, the music in the first film is much better--and even had an Oscar-winning tune. While I didn't watch either for the music, this is clearly better. Second, I think the dynamic between Barry Fitzgerald and Bing Crosby was better, as they were such opposite personalities. However, apart from a few minor differences, Ingrid Bergman and Crosby were practically members of each others' fan club--at least through the first 2/3 of the film. And, finally, the heart of my "The Bells" disappointed me was the unnecessary and completely contrived conflict that was tossed into their relationship near the never end of the film--plus it really made no sense at all. Bergman is diagnosed with TB and the Doctor tells Crosby to move her to an easier job (that makes sense) and NOT tell her she is sick (what?!)--causing conflict that really should NOT have been there! It was unnecessary and really silly. As a result, while I recommend it, my recommendation is lukewarm and you do NOT need to see this if you've seen the first film. Good...not great.
"The Bells of St. Mary's" is an enjoyable film, I am not denying that. However, if you look at its score on IMDb, you'd think it's about as good as its predecessor, "Going My Way"--well, it clearly isn't. There are so many reasons I prefer "Going My Way" and I fortunately was able to see both films only a couple weeks apart, so my memory of each is clear. First, the music in the first film is much better--and even had an Oscar-winning tune. While I didn't watch either for the music, this is clearly better. Second, I think the dynamic between Barry Fitzgerald and Bing Crosby was better, as they were such opposite personalities. However, apart from a few minor differences, Ingrid Bergman and Crosby were practically members of each others' fan club--at least through the first 2/3 of the film. And, finally, the heart of my "The Bells" disappointed me was the unnecessary and completely contrived conflict that was tossed into their relationship near the never end of the film--plus it really made no sense at all. Bergman is diagnosed with TB and the Doctor tells Crosby to move her to an easier job (that makes sense) and NOT tell her she is sick (what?!)--causing conflict that really should NOT have been there! It was unnecessary and really silly. As a result, while I recommend it, my recommendation is lukewarm and you do NOT need to see this if you've seen the first film. Good...not great.