 Louis B. Mayer said "Boys Town" was his favorite film during his years at MGM.The popularity of his films made Rooney the biggest box-office draw in 1939, 1940 and 1941.For their roles in "Boys Town", Rooney and Tracy won first and second place in the "Motion Picture Herald" 1940 National Poll of Exhibitors, based on the box office appeal of 200 players.