My Buddy

Don Barry was Republic's answer to Cagney, with the same nervous face and small but tough body. Barry plays an ex soldier from WWI who lost his best friend just before the end of this terrible war. Going back to country, he cannot find any decent work, and ends in nasty business, getting into jail for five years. Sad destiny for that war hero who isn't recognized for his brilliant military duty. He finally finds the best solution for him and his family. Fine and touching story competently shot by Steve Sekely with nice camera tricks. The title of this forgotten gem is from a song with music written by Walter Donaldson and lyrics by Gus Kahn. It has of course a major role in the story. I like the song in jail sung by Billy Baskette on pumpin piano (Waiting for the Evening Mail, from the movement Tin Pan Alley), swinging electric guitar and slapping bass, a must far ahead of its time.