Our Leading Citizen (1939 film)

Our Leading Citizen is a 1939 American comedy film directed by Alfred Santell and written by Jack Moffitt. The film stars Bob Burns, Susan Hayward, Joseph Allen, Elizabeth Patterson, Gene Lockhart and Charles Bickford. The film was released on August 23, 1939, by Paramount Pictures.

Plot
"Our Leading Citizen" is a 1939 American drama film directed by Alfred Santell. The film follows the story of Lem Schofield, a lawyer in a small town, who aspires to become a senator. Lem is well-respected in his community and is considered a leading citizen, hence the title of the film.

Lem's journey takes a turn when he realizes that the path to political success is not as straightforward as he had hoped. He faces moral dilemmas and ethical challenges that test his integrity and values. Throughout the film, Lem grapples with the corrupting influence of power and the compromises he must make to achieve his ambitions.

The film also explores Lem's relationships with those around him, including his loyal wife, his friends, and his political allies and enemies. These relationships are strained as Lem navigates the treacherous waters of politics, and he must decide what is truly important to him.

As the film progresses, Lem learns valuable lessons about leadership, integrity, and the true meaning of being a leading citizen. He realizes that political power is not the ultimate goal, and he finds fulfillment in staying true to his values and making a positive impact on his community.

The film culminates in a dramatic and uplifting conclusion, where Lem makes a selfless decision that demonstrates his true character and solidifies his legacy as a leading citizen in his community.

"Our Leading Citizen" is a poignant and thought-provoking film that delves into the complexities of political ambition and moral integrity, and it remains a relevant and powerful story to this day.

Cast

 * Bob Burns as Lem Schofield
 * Susan Hayward as Judith Schofield
 * Joseph Allen as Clay Clinton
 * Elizabeth Patterson as Aunt Tillie
 * Gene Lockhart as J.T. Tapley
 * Charles Bickford as Shep Muir
 * Otto Hoffman as Mr. Stoney
 * Clarence Kolb as Jim Hanna
 * Paul Guilfoyle as Jerry Peters
 * Fay Helm as Tonia
 * Kathleen Lockhart as Mrs. Barker
 * Hattie Noel as Druscilla
 * Kathryn Sheldon as Miss Swan
 * Monte Blue as Frank
 * Jim Kelso as Chief of Police
 * Harry C. Bradley as Director
 * Frances Morris as Maid
 * Thomas Louden as Frederick the Butler
 * Olaf Hytten as Charles
 * Phil Dunham as Janitor
 * Gus Glassmire as Doctor