These Dangerous Years – 1957 | 98 mins | Drama | B&W

Plot Synopsis

Anna Neagle, one of Britain’s leading actresses at the time, made her producing debut in this social drama directed by her husband Herbert Wilcox. The well-meaning if patronising tale features a near-30yr-old Frankie Vaughan portraying a rebellious youth as he completes National Service. Songs include: “Isn’t It a Lovely Evening?” “These Dangerous Years” and “Cold, Cold Shower.”

From the waterfront slum area of Liverpool’s ‘Cassy’, a young gang-leader and would-be rock singer, Dave Wyman (Frankie Vaughan), who resents discipline and authority is drafted into the army. The film follows him through basic training but Wyman struggles to cope with the army’s strict regime and clashes with authority figures. When his best friend Smiler is killed, Wyman clashes with loudmouthed camp troublemaker Simpson (Michael Ripper) – it results in him accidentally wounding the bully with a revolver.

Expecting to be blamed for the shooting, Wyman goes on the run and returns to Liverpool. The only person who does believe in Dave is the camp padre (George Baker); but even though he fails in his attempt at persuading Dave to give himself up, the rebellious youth does eventually return to the army camp. He later straightens the mess out, settles down, and marries his singing partner, Lesley.