Young and Willing Review: Story, Cast, Rating & Final Verdict
Last updated: May 16, 2026
Movie Overview: Young and Willing
| Movie | Young and Willing |
| Release Year | 1943 |
| Director | Edward H. Griffith |
| Genre | Drama |
| Runtime | 83 minutes (1h 23m) |
| Language | EN |
Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?
Is Young and Willing (1943) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a ABOVE AVERAGE with a verified audience rating of 5.8/10. 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 Young and Willing are led by William Holden . The supporting cast, including Eddie Bracken and Susan Hayward , provides the necessary layers to the central narrative.
movieMx Verdict: Is it Worth Your Time?
What Works in the Movie
While Young and Willing does not fully realize its potential, it still contains moments that may appeal to viewers who enjoy Drama films.
- Interesting concept or premise
- Some entertaining scenes
- Supporting cast delivers occasional highlights
What Doesn't Work
Despite its strengths, Young and Willing 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: Young and Willing
Quick Plot Summary: Released in 1943, Young and Willing is a Drama film directed by Edward H. Griffith, written by Virginia Van Upp. The narrative explores complex human emotions and relationships through detailed character development. It provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict involving William Holden as Norman Reese.
Ending Explained: Young and Willing
Young and Willing Ending Explained: For those, if any, who have wondered why so many Paramount contractees appeared in United Artists' films during the war years, this is another one of the Paramount productions that was sold to United Artists in the early-40's when U. Directed by Edward H. Griffith, this 1943 drama film stars William Holden (Norman Reese), alongside Eddie Bracken as George Bodell, Susan Hayward as Kate Benson, Robert Benchley as Arthur Kenny. Rated 5.8/10, the conclusion has sparked discussion among viewers.
What Happens at the End of Young and Willing?
For those, if any, who have wondered why so many Paramount contractees appeared in United Artists' films during the war years, this is another one of the Paramount productions that was sold to United Artists in the early-40's when U.A. was having trouble meeting their exhibitor contracts because of lack of product, mainly due to their loss of production in England. A group of starving, but young and willing, actors band together to share finances and an apartment. Norman Reese (William Holden) orders no love nonsense between the boys and girls till they are set on broadway, but Marge Benson (Barbara Britton) and Tony Dennison (James Brown) are already secretly married. A friend drops in to see Dottie Coburn (Martha O'Driscoll) and is shocked to find the boys and girls sharing the same apartment and insists it is her duty to inform Dottie's father (Jay Fassett.)
Edward H. Griffith's narrative builds toward a resolution centered on William Holden (Norman Reese)'s journey. was having trouble meeting their exhibitor contracts because of lack of product, mainly due to their loss of production in England.
How Does William Holden (Norman Reese)'s Story End?
- William Holden: William Holden's storyline wraps up in the final act, though some viewers have found the resolution more ambiguous than expected.
- Eddie Bracken (George Bodell): Eddie Bracken's role in the climax proves pivotal to how the central conflict resolves.
- Susan Hayward (Kate Benson): Susan Hayward's character undergoes a significant shift in the final act.
What Does the Ending of Young and Willing Mean?
The ending of Young and Willing brings the narrative to a close, though viewer reception has been mixed. The resolution of William Holden's story may not satisfy all audiences.
Young and Willing Real vs. Reel: Is it Based on a True Story?
Is Young and Willing Based on a True Story?
No, Young and Willing is a work of fiction. While the drama film directed by Edward H. Griffith and starring William Holden may incorporate realistic themes, the characters and plot are original creations.
Who Should Watch Young and Willing?
Age Advisory: Rated Not Rated.
Consider Watching If:
- You're a completist for Drama films
- You're curious despite mixed reviews
- You have low expectations and want casual entertainment
At just 83 minutes, it's a quick watch.
Where to Watch Young and Willing Online?
Streaming Hub📺 Stream on
Shout! Factory Amazon Channel🎟️ Rent on
Amazon Video🏷️ Buy on
Amazon VideoYoung and Willing Parents Guide & Age Rating
1943 AdvisoryWondering about Young and Willing age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:
⏱️ Runtime & Duration
The total runtime of Young and Willing (1943) is 83 minutes (1h 23m). Directed by Edward H. Griffith, the film runs for 83 minutes in its complete theatrical version.
Verdict Summary
Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 5.8/10, and global performance metrics, Young and Willing is classified as a ABOVE AVERAGE. It remains an essential part of the 1943 cinematic calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Young and Willing worth watching?
Young and Willing is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Drama movies. It has a verified rating of 5.8/10 and stands as a ABOVE AVERAGE in our box office analysis.
Where can I find Young and Willing parents guide and age rating?
The official parents guide for Young and Willing identifies it as Not Rated. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.
What is the runtime of Young and Willing (1943)?
The runtime of Young and Willing (1943) is 83 minutes (approximately 1h 23m).
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.
