Summary
Some Boy" unfurls a whimsical yet resonant narrative centered on Joyous Johnson, a scion of privilege whose collegiate misadventures culminate in expulsion. Thrust into the prosaic role of a publicist at the opulent Coronado Hotel, Joyous's effervescent, albeit misguided, ambition collides with the formidable business acumen of Marjorie Milbank. Marjorie, a shrewd Texan ranch owner, finds herself entangled in a high-stakes negotiation with Joyous's father, whose struggling packing house desperately hinges on acquiring her coveted cattle operation. Unaware of the profound familial stakes, Joyous, in a spectacularly ill-conceived bid for publicity, orchestrates the theft of Marjorie's diamond necklace. The ensuing scandal, far from generating positive buzz, threatens the hotel's reputation. In a desperate, comedic attempt to rectify his blunder, Joyous dons an elaborate disguise, only to botch the return. Marjorie, discerning the underlying chaos but perhaps intrigued by his audacious spirit, departs for Texas, unwittingly trailed by the contrite Joyous, who ultimately confesses his escapade. In an unexpected twist of fate, the resourceful Marjorie, recognizing latent potential beneath the youthful bravado, offers him stewardship of her ranch. Here, Joyous not only finds his footing but also remarkably outmaneuvers his own father in a strategic takeover bid. Witnessing his son's transformation from feckless dilettante to capable leader, the elder Johnson finally relents, offering his blessing to the newly forged partnership—both professional and romantic—between Joyous and Marjorie, a testament to growth, redemption, and the surprising paths to maturity.
Synopsis
After he is expelled from college, Joyous Johnson finds a job as a publicity agent for the Coronado Hotel. At the hotel, he meets Marjorie Milbank, a clever businesswoman who is in town discussing the sale of her Texas ranch with Joyous' father. Unknown to Joyous, the senior Johnson needs Marjorie's cattle ranch to keep his packing house solvent, but she refuses to sell. Determined to get the hotel into the newspapers, Joyous breaks into Marjorie's room and steals her diamond necklace. When his employer tells him that the publicity is hurting business, Joyous dresses up in women's clothes in an unsuccessful attempt to return the jewels. Marjorie checks out without her necklace and heads for the next boat back to Texas, followed by Joyous, who eventually confesses his crime. To his surprise, Marjorie hires Joyous to manage her ranch and he defeats his father in a takeover attempt. Impressed by the change in his son, Johnson finally forgives the interference and embraces the new couple.
Review Excerpt
"
The early 20th century, particularly the vibrant silent film era, was a crucible for narratives exploring youthful exuberance, societal expectations, and the often-circuitous path to self-discovery. Amidst a burgeoning cinematic landscape, Some Boy, a 1919 offering from director William Parker, emerges not merely as a relic of its time but as a charmingly perceptive commentary on these very themes. Starring the charismatic George Walsh and the formidable Doris Pawn, this film navigates the ..."
