What a Life

What a Life

Year: 1939

Runtime: 75 mins

Language: English

Director: Theodore Reed

DramaComedy

THE ADVENTURES OF HENRY ALDRICH…RADIO’S FAVORITE HARD-LUCK KID! Jackie Cooper stars in this first film in the wholesome “Henry Aldrich” series of teen comedies.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline – What a Life (1939)

Trace every key event in What a Life (1939) with our detailed, chronological timeline. Perfect for unpacking nonlinear stories, spotting hidden connections, and understanding how each scene builds toward the film’s climax. Whether you're revisiting or decoding for the first time, this timeline gives you the full picture.

1

Opening day at school

Henry navigates the challenges of high school life, balancing studies, friendships, and his budding romance with Barbara. His well-meaning, accident-prone nature toys with trouble, often landing him in the wrong place at the wrong time. The stage is set for a teen drama about reputation and misperceptions.

Morning High School
2

Accusations in the science lab

The principal accuses Henry of vandalism and disrupting a class science experiment. Henry protests his innocence, but mounting rumors and the school's harsh procedures pit him against teachers and peers. The conflict immediately tests his character and his family’s trust.

Morning School - Science Lab
3

Parents worry at home

Back home, Mr. and Mrs. Aldrich wrestle with how to believe in their son's character while the evidence seems stacked against him. They try to defend his honesty, yet worry about the damage to his reputation. The family bond becomes a focal point of the unfolding crisis.

Evening Aldrich Family Home
4

A plan to clear his name

Determined to uncover the truth, Henry seeks Barbara’s encouragement and begins to investigate. They discuss possible suspects and map out a plan to gather clues. The partnership marks a shift from being blamed to actively seeking the real culprits.

Evening Barbara's Home
5

Interviewing classmates

Henry begins questioning classmates to reconstruct the sequence of events. He listens for inconsistencies and notes alibis, hoping to separate truth from rumors. The investigation introduces humor and tension as he uncovers small clues that point toward something bigger.

Afternoon School Corridors
6

A janitor misunderstanding

A run-in with a janitor creates a comedic misunderstanding that heightens the chaos around Henry. The moment adds texture to the quest for the truth while reinforcing that appearances can mislead. Henry resolves not to jump to conclusions about anyone.

Afternoon School Hallway
7

Tense scene with a strict teacher

Henry clashes with a strict teacher who questions his actions and motives. The confrontation tests his composure and pushes him to stay focused on the truth. This setback strengthens his resolve to prove his innocence.

Afternoon Classroom
8

Awkward encounter at the school dance

At the school dance, Henry navigates social pressure while trying to clear his name. The event blends romance, embarrassment, and the pull between reputation and truth. Barbara’s support helps him maintain his dignity amid the chaos.

Evening School Gym
9

Finding the real culprits

Henry uncovers clues pointing to two mischievous classmates who had been using him as a scapegoat. He pieces together their pattern of disruptions and realizes the motive behind the events. The discovery shifts the story from investigation to confrontation.

Afternoon Library / Classroom
10

Confrontation in front of the school

In a climactic moment, Henry exposes the culprits in front of the entire school. The crowd witnesses his perseverance and the truth behind the disruptions becomes undeniable. The confrontation vindicates him and restores his standing.

During Assembly School Auditorium
11

Vindication and support

Henry is exonerated and the principal acknowledges his integrity. Friends rally around him, and teachers reexamine their assumptions. The community begins to renew trust as Henry’s character is proven through action.

After Assembly School Grounds / Auditorium
12

Growth and a hopeful ending

The story closes with Henry reflecting on perseverance, honesty, and standing up for oneself. He learns to navigate challenges with humility while maintaining his friendships and his relationship with Barbara. The final moments celebrate resilience and the value of doing what's right.

Closing School Grounds

Last Updated: October 09, 2025 at 10:50

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What a Life Summary

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Characters, Settings & Themes in What a Life

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