Is Follow Me, Boys! Worth Watching?
Answer: Yes, Follow Me, Boys! is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Drama movies.
It features a runtime of 131 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to general audiences.
Follow Me, Boys! Review
Last updated: January 10, 2026
The Premise
Released in 1966, Follow Me, Boys! enters the Drama genre with a narrative focused on Lem Siddons is part of a traveling band who has a dream of becoming a lawyer. Under the direction of Norman Tokar, the film attempts to weave detailed character arcs with visual storytelling.
Cast & Performance
The film is anchored by performances from Fred MacMurray, Vera Miles, Lillian Gish. While the cast delivers competent performances, the script occasionally limits their range.
Technical Mastery & Style
From a technical standpoint, Follow Me, Boys! offers a competent presentation. The cinematography uses a distinct visual palette that aligns well with the tone. While the 4K mastering highlights the production value, the pacing during its 131-minute runtime can feel deliberate.
Social Impact & Cultural Context
Beyond the narrative, Follow Me, Boys! resonates with current cultural themes in the Drama space. It stays within the established boundaries of its genre, providing exactly what core fans expect without reinventing the wheel.
Where to Watch & Streaming Info
As of January 2026, Follow Me, Boys! is available in theaters worldwide. For streaming audiences in the US, UK, and India, look for availability on major platforms roughly 45-60 days after the theatrical release. Don't miss the high-definition experience provided by premium large format (PLF) screenings.
Narrative Arc & Plot Breakdown
The plot of Follow Me, Boys! centers on a unique premise within the Drama landscape. Lem Siddons is part of a traveling band who has a dream of becoming a lawyer. Deciding to settle down, he finds a job as a stockboy in the general store of a small town. Trying to fit in, he volunteers to become scoutmaster of the newly formed Troop 1. Becoming more and more involved with the scout troop, he finds his plans to become a lawyer being put on the back burner, until he realizes that his life has been fulfilled helping the youth of the small town. The second act serves as a major turning point, leading to a climax that fans of 1966 cinema will find fairly predictable.
Ending Explained & Sequel Potential
The ending of Follow Me, Boys! has sparked significant debate on social media. It signifies the ambiguous resolution of the main plot thread. Given the current box office momentum, discussions of a Follow Me, Boys! sequel or a wider cinematic universe are already gaining traction.
Final Editorial Verdict
Final verdict for Follow Me, Boys! (1966): with an audience rating of 6.6/10, the reception has been generally positive. It is a must-watch for fans of Drama, Family cinema who appreciate attention to detail.
Cast of Follow Me, Boys!
- Fred MacMurray – Lemuel Siddons
- Vera Miles – Vida Downey
- Lillian Gish – Hetty Seibert
- Charles Ruggles – John Everett Hughes
- Elliott Reid – Ralph Hastings
Top Highlights
Fred MacMurrayLemuel Siddons
Vera MilesVida Downey
Lillian GishHetty Seibert
Charles RugglesJohn Everett Hughes
Elliott ReidRalph Hastings
Kurt RussellWhitey
Luana PattenNora White
Ken MurrayMelody Murphy
Donald MayEdward White, Jr.
Sean McCloryEdward White, Sr.
Parents Guide & Age Rating
Follow Me, Boys! has not been officially rated yet.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 6.6/10, and global collection metrics, Follow Me, Boys! stands as a successful venture for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 1966 cinematic year.
Official Trailer
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Follow Me, Boys! movie hit or flop?
Follow Me, Boys! has received mixed reviews with a 6.6/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.
Is Follow Me, Boys! worth watching?
Follow Me, Boys! is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Drama, Family movies, but read reviews first.
What genre is Follow Me, Boys!?
Follow Me, Boys! is a Drama, Family movie that Lem Siddons is part of a traveling band who has a dream of becoming a lawyer. Deciding to settle down, he finds a job as a stockboy in the general sto...
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Critic Reviews
Almost great. The first 70-90 minutes of 'Follow Me, Boys!' is excellent, it's serious yet amusing. I felt connected to the characters and their storyline. Unfortunately, the film then adds on a pointless if solid extra 40-60 minutes. It kinda feels like one of those TV episodes into one film things, which is annoying as it doesn't need to do it. Fred MacMurray is terrific as Lem, especially across that opening period. It's heartwarming seeing his character help out a community of kids, particularly one - Whitey, who is played impressively by Kurt Russell. All of the other child actors, while not massively memorable, are fine and you really feel for their overall story. The final portion of this film really hampers it though. It isn't actually anything bad and if it had been a sequel I reckon I would've liked it, but as a continuation/add-on to the earlier premise it doesn't hit the same heartfelt notes at all. So that's disappointing, but it's still just about a good film.