While he works for a prestigious Montana law firm, mild-mannered, unassertive Max Webster (Glenn Ford) is rather the low-man on the totem pole, never receiving recognition or appreciation for all he does. Irritated by this, Max's wife, Julie (Ruth Roman), urges him to talk to his boss about the possibility of being taken on as a partner. Things don't go well, however, and Max packs his things and heads to Los Angeles, where he and Julie believe there will be more opportunity for him.
Arriving in Los Angeles, Max, who has little confidence in himself, is worried about his ability to pass the California Bar exam. In his Bar exam classes, he makes the acquaintance of Joyce (Nina Foch), who suggests that, until he passes the Bar and is a practicing lawyer, he get a job at the collection agency where she works. Although Julie doesn't believe Max could do that kind of a job, he takes it just to prove he can; it's not a job suited to Max's personality, however, and he ends up being quite the pushover.
As if the job difficulties aren't enough, the house the Websters are renting previously belonged to a bookie, and their phone is constantly ringing with men wanting to place bets. Julie jokingly accepts a bet one time, and when that particular horse wins big, the "bookie" is expected to payoff. Now, in addition to his worries about passing the Bar and collecting past due bills, Max must worry about the mobster who expects him to pay out his winnings. And with Julie having little to no confidence in him or respect for him, Max's confidence in himself is at an all-time low; if things don't change soon, he may find himself having to put his tail between his legs and run back to his old job in Montana.
While Young Man with Ideas is certainly not a fantastic film, I found it entertaining and enjoyable. Glenn Ford, I think, is always delightful and fun. In fact, he's the reason I set my DVR for this film. Ruth Roman and Nina Foch were fine in their roles. Nothing spectacular, but completely adequate. Sheldon Leonard, who is always a scream, portrayed the mobster expecting a payoff. He was perfect in his role. Finally, the little girls playing the Webster's daughters were totally adorable. All these things combined to make a sweet and enjoyable film.
Although this film is not out on DVD, it is available in its entirety on YouTube (HERE). If you are a Glenn Ford fan, do try to catch it. I feel sure you will enjoy it.
Happy viewing!!
