Youthful Father Chuck O'Malley (Bing Crosby) led a colorful life of sports, song, and romance before joining the Roman Catholic clergy, but his level gaze and twinkling eyes make it clear that he knows he made the right choice. After joining a parish, O'Malley's worldly knowledge helps him connect with a gang of kids looking for direction and handle the business details of the church-building fund, winning over his aging, conventional superior (Barry Fitzgerald). Songs such as "Swinging on a Star" sparkle, and both Crosby and Fitzgerald do a fine job tugging at the heartstrings in a gentle, irresistible way that will make viewers return to this lovely film again and again.

The overwhelming popularity of this film upon its release was only heightened by the many Academy Awards it won, and its sequel, THE BELLS OF SAINT MARY'S, starring Crosby and Ingrid Bergman, was released in theaters the next year to eager fans and more awards.