Come Next Spring (1956)

Directed by R.G. Springsteen and written by Montgomery Pittman, Come Next Spring is a heartfelt rural drama that quietly stands out as one of the most emotionally resonant films of the 1950s. Produced by Republic Pictures, the film stars Ann Sheridan and Steve Cochran in deeply personal roles, with a score by the legendary Max Steiner.

Plot Summary
Set in Prohibition-era Arkansas, the story follows Matt Ballot (Steve Cochran), a recovering alcoholic who returns home after nine years to the wife and daughter he abandoned. His daughter Annie (Sherry Jackson) hasn’t spoken since a traumatic car accident caused by Matt’s drinking. His wife Bess (Ann Sheridan) is wary, especially since she’s raised a son, Abe, born after Matt left.

Matt takes a job as a handyman and slowly begins to rebuild trust with his family. He faces challenges from Leroy Hytower (Sonny Tufts), a suitor vying for Bess’s affection, and from his own demons. Through acts of courage and honesty—including rescuing Annie from a mine shaft and confronting his past—Matt earns a second chance at love and fatherhood.

Cast Highlights

• Ann Sheridan as Bess Ballot
• Steve Cochran as Matt Ballot
• Sherry Jackson as Annie Ballot
• Richard Eyer as Abe Ballot
• Walter Brennan as Jeffrey Storys
• Sonny Tufts, Edgar Buchanan, and Mae Clarke in supporting roles

Behind-the-Scenes Trivia

• Ann Sheridan called this her favorite film, though she was disappointed by Republic Pictures’ lackluster release strategy
• The screenplay was written by Montgomery Pittman, who was Sherry Jackson’s stepfather
• The film was shot in Ione, California, though it’s set in fictional Cushin, Arkansas—possibly inspired by Cushman in Independence County
• The theme song “Come Next Spring” was composed by Max Steiner with lyrics by Lenny Adelson, performed by Tony Bennett, and later covered by Scott Walker
• Republic Pictures released it as the bottom half of a double bill, prompting The Hollywood Reporter to lament, “Wake up, Republic. You have another Marty on your hands… Or don’t you care?”