It stars Sir Cedric Hardwicke, Freddie Bartholomew and Jimmy Lydon in the title role.

In this version emphasis is placed on the development of Headmaster Thomas Arnold and his reformist ideas concerning the English public school.

[1] It was well received by critics, with Variety praising it in a December 31, 1939, review as "sympathetically and skilfully made, with many touching moments and an excellent cast".

[1] Jimmy Lydon as the title character was called "believable and moving in the early portions, but too young for the final moments".

[3] The entertainment journal Variety praised the adaptation, saying, "It probably results in a better picture, since Cedric Hardwicke, who plays the wise and kindly teacher, is much better qualified to carry a story than is any Hollywood prodigy.