Public Hero Number 1

'Public Hero Number 1' is certainly not the greatest gangster flick ever, but the film is hugely entertaining: fast-paced, suspenseful and fun. The acting is excellent throughout: Joseph Calleia is a convincing ruthless crime boss, Chester Morris the undercover agent on his tracks, Lionel Barrymore the permanently plastered doctor who caters to the underworld, and Jean Arthur the estranged sister of the gangster boss who falls for the police agent. There is a clear division of labour: Calleia and Morris are responsible for generating suspense while Barrymore and Arthur take care of the laughs. For me, 'Public Hero Number 1' ticks all the boxes. Have a look - it's worth it!