Young People Review: Story, Cast, Rating & Final Verdict
Last updated: May 17, 2026
Movie Overview: Young People
| Movie | Young People |
| Release Year | 1940 |
| Director | Allan Dwan |
| Genre | Drama |
| Runtime | 79 minutes (1h 19m) |
| Language | EN |
Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?
Is Young People (1940) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a AVERAGE with a verified audience rating of 5.3/10. 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 People are led by Shirley Temple . The supporting cast, including Jack Oakie and Charlotte Greenwood , provides the necessary layers to the central narrative.
movieMx Verdict: Is it Worth Your Time?
What Works in the Movie
While Young People 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 People 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 People
Quick Plot Summary: Released in 1940, Young People is a Drama film directed by Allan Dwan, written by Edwin Blum. The narrative explores complex human emotions and relationships through detailed character development. It provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict involving Shirley Temple as Wendy Ballantine.
Ending Explained: Young People
Young People Ending Explained: Wendy Ballantine's parents decide to retire from show biz so she can have a normal life. Directed by Allan Dwan, this 1940 drama film stars Shirley Temple (Wendy Ballantine), alongside Jack Oakie as Joe Ballantine, Charlotte Greenwood as Kit Ballantine, Arleen Whelan as Judith. Rated 5.3/10, the conclusion has sparked discussion among viewers.
What Happens at the End of Young People?
Wendy Ballantine's parents decide to retire from show biz so she can have a normal life. They are unwelcome in the small town until a storm lets the family show their stuff.
Allan Dwan's narrative builds toward a resolution centered on Shirley Temple (Wendy Ballantine)'s journey. They are unwelcome in the small town until a storm lets the family show their stuff.
How Does Shirley Temple (Wendy Ballantine)'s Story End?
- Shirley Temple: Shirley Temple's storyline wraps up in the final act, though some viewers have found the resolution more ambiguous than expected.
- Jack Oakie (Joe Ballantine): Jack Oakie's role in the climax proves pivotal to how the central conflict resolves.
- Charlotte Greenwood (Kit Ballantine): Charlotte Greenwood's character undergoes a significant shift in the final act.
What Does the Ending of Young People Mean?
The ending of Young People brings the narrative to a close, though viewer reception has been mixed. The resolution of Shirley Temple's story may not satisfy all audiences.
Young People Real vs. Reel: Is it Based on a True Story?
Is Young People Based on a True Story?
No, Young People is a work of fiction. While the drama film directed by Allan Dwan and starring Shirley Temple may incorporate realistic themes, the characters and plot are original creations.
Who Should Watch Young People?
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 79 minutes, it's a quick watch.
Where to Watch Young People Online?
Streaming Hub🎟️ Rent on
Apple TV Store
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Fandango At Home🏷️ Buy on
Apple TV StoreGoogle Play MoviesYouTubeFandango At HomeYoung People Parents Guide & Age Rating
1940 AdvisoryWondering about Young People age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:
⏱️ Runtime & Duration
The total runtime of Young People (1940) is 79 minutes (1h 19m). Directed by Allan Dwan, the film runs for 79 minutes in its complete theatrical version.
Verdict Summary
Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 5.3/10, and global performance metrics, Young People is classified as a AVERAGE. It remains an essential part of the 1940 cinematic calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Young People worth watching?
Young People is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Drama movies. It has a verified rating of 5.3/10 and stands as a AVERAGE in our box office analysis.
Where can I find Young People parents guide and age rating?
The official parents guide for Young People identifies it as NR. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.
What is the runtime of Young People (1940)?
The runtime of Young People (1940) is 79 minutes (approximately 1h 19m).
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.
