Brothers' Destiny

The story begins sometime between 1917 and the Great Depression. A couple boys are orphaned when the rest of their family is killed in a gas explosion. They are taken to a nearby Catholic orphanage, but soon the pair are separated. Some rich woman decide to adopt the youngest one and the older brother insists he's going to rescue his brother as their father would not have wanted them to be separated. The rest of the film consists of their struggle to go cross country, as they heard about Boys Town and Father Flanagan...and hope that if they make it there, they can remain together. Unfortunately, the rich woman sends out detectives to try to catch them as well as offering a huge reward.

The most interesting thing about the film is casting Mickey Rooney in a tiny role as Father Flanagan, as he starred in "Boys Town" back in 1937 as a particularly unruly kid who refused to adapt to the routine at the facility.

So is it any good? Yes. While one review says it's depressing throughout, it's not that bad...as it does have a happy ending. Plus, while some folks are quick to try to sell them out, many others are willing to help them. Overall, an enjoyable made for TV movie.

By the way, IMDB says the film is in color. The copy I saw on YouTube was in black & white...and considering the era in which it was set, I assume it was actually a black & white film.