Maryland Review: Story, Cast, Rating & Final Verdict
Last updated: May 12, 2026
Movie Overview: Maryland
| Movie | Maryland |
| Release Year | 1940 |
| Director | Henry King |
| Genre | Drama / Mystery / Romance |
| Runtime | 92 minutes (1h 32m) |
| Language | EN |
Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?
Is Maryland (1940) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a HIT with a verified audience rating of 6.5/10. Whether you're looking for the box office collection, ending explained, or parents guide, our review covers everything you need to know about this Drama.
Cast & Character Study
The performances in Maryland are led by Walter Brennan . The supporting cast, including Fay Bainter and Brenda Joyce , provides the necessary layers to the central narrative.
movieMx Verdict: Is it Worth Your Time?
What Works in the Movie
Maryland stands out as a strong entry in the Drama genre. The film benefits from engaging storytelling, memorable performances, and solid production values that help keep viewers invested.
- Compelling performances from the main cast
- Strong visual storytelling and direction
- Well-structured Drama narrative
- Satisfying emotional or dramatic payoff
What Doesn't Work
Despite its strengths, Maryland has a few issues that may affect the overall viewing experience, particularly in terms of pacing and narrative consistency.
- Uneven pacing in certain parts of the film
- Some predictable plot developments
- May not appeal to audiences outside the Drama fanbase
Story & Plot Summary: Maryland
Quick Plot Summary: Released in 1940, Maryland is a Drama, Mystery, Romance film directed by Henry King, written by Ethel Hill. The narrative explores complex human emotions and relationships through detailed character development. It provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict involving Walter Brennan as William P. Stewart.
Ending Explained: Maryland
Maryland Ending Explained: A woman tormented by the hunting death of her husband forbids her son to have anything to do with horses. Directed by Henry King, this 1940 drama film stars Walter Brennan (William P. Stewart), alongside Fay Bainter as Charlotte Danfield, Brenda Joyce as Linda, John Payne as Leland "Lee" Danfield. With a 6.5/10 rating, the ending has divided audiences.
What Happens at the End of Maryland?
A woman tormented by the hunting death of her husband forbids her son to have anything to do with horses. But when he falls for the daughter of his father's trainer, he defies his mother by entering the Maryland Hunt.
Henry King's narrative builds toward a resolution centered on Walter Brennan (William P. Stewart)'s journey. But when he falls for the daughter of his father's trainer, he defies his mother by entering the Maryland Hunt.
How Does Walter Brennan (William P. Stewart)'s Story End?
- Walter Brennan: Walter Brennan's storyline wraps up in the final act, though some viewers have found the resolution more ambiguous than expected.
- Fay Bainter (Charlotte Danfield): Fay Bainter's role in the climax proves pivotal to how the central conflict resolves.
- Brenda Joyce (Linda): Brenda Joyce's character undergoes a significant shift in the final act.
What Does the Ending of Maryland Mean?
Maryland's ending attempts to resolve the major plot threads, though some narrative elements involving Walter Brennan may feel rushed. Henry King's final act has been both praised for its ambition and criticized for its execution.
Maryland Real vs. Reel: Is it Based on a True Story?
Is Maryland Based on a True Story?
No, Maryland is a work of fiction. While the drama, mystery, romance film directed by Henry King and starring Walter Brennan may incorporate realistic themes, the characters and plot are original creations.
Who Should Watch Maryland?
Worth Watching If You:
- Enjoy Drama films and don't mind familiar tropes
- Are a fan of Walter Brennan or the director
- Want a character-driven story with emotional moments
Maryland Parents Guide & Age Rating
1940 AdvisoryWondering about Maryland age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:
⏱️ Runtime & Duration
The total runtime of Maryland (1940) is 92 minutes (1h 32m). Directed by Henry King, the film runs for 92 minutes in its complete theatrical version.
Verdict Summary
Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 6.5/10, and global performance metrics, Maryland is classified as a HIT. It remains an essential part of the 1940 cinematic calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Maryland worth watching?
Maryland is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Drama movies. It has a verified rating of 6.5/10 and stands as a HIT in our box office analysis.
Where can I find Maryland parents guide and age rating?
The official parents guide for Maryland identifies it as NR. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.
What is the runtime of Maryland (1940)?
The runtime of Maryland (1940) is 92 minutes (approximately 1h 32m).
movieMx Verified
This review has been verified for accuracy and editorial quality by our senior cinematic analysts.
This analysis is compiled by our editorial experts using multi-source verification and audience sentiment data for maximum accuracy.
