Here's another one of those old-fashioned movies in which people are all nice: no villains. It's a refreshing change of pace, once in a while, at least for me.

Sometimes it's relaxing just to just kick back with a story that just makes you feel good, doesn't upset you at any time. There are some touching scenes with some sadness in here, too, however, but the sincere story and great acting make you glad you watched it.

Robert Donat, as Mr. Chippings, is a pleasure to watch, particularly when he plays the character in his declining years. Greer Garson gets equal if not top billing, but that's not right. Her role is not that big in this picture.

Another nice feature you don't see much, at least in post-1960 films - all respectful kids in here, with manners. Nice adults, nice kids, nice story - probably too corny for most people of today in our cynical world. Too bad. Their loss.

This movie is marvelous and for so many reasons. First, I am a big fan of the novels of James Hilton and this adaptation is more true to his books than most (such as RANDOM HARVEST). Second, the acting and writing is so good it is almost impossible to imagine them being better. Greer Garson and Robert Donat are so perfect together. In fact, Donat's performance was good enough to wrestle away the Oscar from Clark Gable from GONE WITH THE WIND (though I honestly think Gable probably deserved it a little more).

This is a story about a confirmed bachelor who is a teacher at a boys prep school. "Mr. Chips" as they call him is very decent but dull--and he's been a fixture at the school for some time. However, quite unexpectedly he meets a woman who pulls him out of his shell and changes his life (Garson). Unfortunately, lovers of happy endings beware--this romance will rip out your heart. Even the most jaded will find themselves pulled into it emotionally.

This is a great film through and through. All those associated with this film have done themselves proud.

There is the Peter O'Toole musical remake which I need to re-watch again despite not thinking much of it, and the Martin Clunes TV adaptation which was excellent, but I consider this 1939 Goodbye Mr Chips the definitive version. The film gives you a warm and cosy feeling just looking at it, and there is a sparkling score. The script has moments where it is droll, but mostly it is touching and very warm-hearted and human. The story still moves and charms me to this day, with the ending especially making me cry, the underrated Sam Wood's(director also of the brilliant A Night at the Opera) direction is immaculate and the characters are all compelling particularly the titular character. The acting helps to bring everything to life, as lovely as Greer Garson is, and a pleasure it was to spot Casablanca's Paul Henreid, Great Expectations' Martita Hunt(in an uncredited cameo) and a young John Mills, it is Robert Donat's film as he is a revelation in a very subtle and sincere performance. All in all, a beautiful film and the best Goodbye Mr Chips. 10/10 Bethany Cox