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Poster for The Bells of St. Mary's

The Bells of St. Mary's

Seen it?

1945 | 126 min | Drama, Comedy

Saturday Specialearly rating

Why it’s a Saturday Special

It earned strong reviews (85% on Rotten Tomatoes) and it won an Oscar, despite a box office flop. A strong pick for the weekend.

Based on critics, audiences, awards, box office and buzz. Details below.

Is it for you?

Who'll love it
Made for anyone who wants a laugh. If you loved Going My Way, start here. Critics rate it higher than audiences do, so it rewards patience more than it chases thrills.
The mood
Funny with heart.
The pace
Takes its time with its characters, at 2 hr 6 min.
What might put you off
  • Made in 1945: an older pace and style.
  • Audiences were cooler on it than critics.

Father O'Malley is sent to St. Mary's, a run-down parochial school on the verge of condemnation. He and Sister Benedict work together in an attempt to save the school, though their differing methods often lead to good-natured disagreements.

How it earned its rating

  • CriticsStrong

    85% on Rotten Tomatoes

  • AudiencesSolid

    6.9 out of 10

  • AwardsStrong

    Won 1 Oscar: Best Sound. Also nominated for 6 more Oscars.

  • Box office & staying powerWeak

    $21 million worldwide

  • Buzz & cultural impactWeak

    Not enough engagement data yet

Trailer

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Cast & crew

Directed by Leo McCarey

  • Bing CrosbyFather O'Malley
  • Ingrid BergmanSister Mary Benedict
  • Henry TraversHorace P. Bogardus
  • William GarganJoe Gallagher
  • Ruth DonnellySister Michael
  • Joan CarrollPatsy Gallagher
  • Martha SleeperMary Gallagher
  • Rhys WilliamsDr. McKay
  • Richard TylerEddie Breen
  • Una O'ConnorMrs. Breen