Andy Hardy Comes Home

Andy Hardy Comes Home is a lighthearted comedy-drama film from 1958. It stars Mickey Rooney as the titular character, Andy Hardy, who returns to his hometown of Carvel after serving in the military for five years. The film also features Patricia Breslin as Kay Wilson, Andy's former girlfriend, and Fay Holden as Mrs. Emily Hardy, Andy's mother.

The movie begins with Andy getting off a train in Carvel and being greeted by his family and friends. He soon discovers that many things have changed in his absence, including the fact that Kay is now engaged to another man. Andy's initial plan is to stay in Carvel for a short time and then return to New York City, where he has a job waiting for him. However, his plans are derailed when he finds himself drawn back into the life he left behind.

One of the main conflicts in the movie centers around Andy trying to win Kay back. Despite her engagement, he finds himself falling in love with her all over again. However, Kay is not so easily swayed. She tells Andy that she no longer wants the same things in life that he does and that they are not right for each other. Andy must come to terms with the fact that his feelings for Kay have changed and that he can't force her to feel the same way.

Another significant storyline in the film involves Andy's relationship with his family. He discovers that his father has passed away and his mother is struggling to keep their family business, Hardy's General Store, afloat. Andy decides to put his plans on hold and help his mother out. He takes over the store and tries to modernize it by introducing new products and advertising. However, his efforts are met with resistance from the conservative citizens of Carvel, who are resistant to change.

Throughout the movie, Andy reconnects with old friends and makes some new ones. He spends time with his old pal Betsy Booth (played by Joi Lansing), who is now a glamorous movie star in Hollywood. He also meets a new love interest, a local girl named Daphne (played by Jeanne Baird), but their relationship is hampered by the fact that she is engaged to another man.

The movie is filled with memorable scenes and funny moments, thanks in large part to Rooney's energetic performance as Andy. His character is charming and likable, even when he's making mistakes. Breslin, as Kay, plays her character with a quiet grace that makes her a perfect match for Andy, at least on paper. And Holden, as Mrs. Hardy, is the glue that holds the whole film together. Her performance is both warm and funny, and she brings a sense of heart to every scene she's in.

Overall, Andy Hardy Comes Home is a heartwarming film that captures the spirit of small-town America in the 1950s. It's a nostalgic trip down memory lane for those who grew up during that era, and a charming slice of history for those who didn't. The movie is a testament to the enduring appeal of Mickey Rooney, who was one of Hollywood's brightest stars during the Golden Age of cinema.