Marcyph3r

What a stunning picture, as Fritz Lang cemented his place in movie history if he hadn't done so already with Metropolis (1927) among his other early works in the Weimar period. It is very different from that experimental work of extravagance, but even stronger. It is more concise, the script is fascinating as is the acting but to me real star of the show is the cinematography and direction. Its so brilliant and innovative, and still impresses today. It's hard to really imagine how it must have felt seeing this in 1931. The contrast of light and dark, the moving camera shots, the use of mirrors and shadows... and one can go on.

The script with its attention to the psychology of the people, the police and criminals is also fascinating. Of course further attention must be paid to Peter Lorre, who as a 'main' character does not have that much screentime until the later parts of the movie, but his time in the frame is magnetic and powerful.

Original, impressive, with a long lasting legacy which it fully deserves. Every movie fan should really watch this at least once.

This crime comedy drama with James Cagney and Joan Blondell is really very entertaining. The start of the movie is more heavy on the comedy, which is relatively edgy making it very clear that this is a pre-code film. Cagney is nice and mischievous and Joan Blondell knows how to hit back (literally, sometimes). They are both very strong in their roles.

Very interesting to see the con they pulled that was very similar to The Sting.

The later parts of the movie have a more dramatic tinge, and bring it more in line with the sentimentality of a typical gangster movie of the period. The change in tone is somewhat abrupt, but the movie remains strong and entertaining until the end. It helps that it has a nice tempo and is not too long. Recommended

Is there a better example of the Pre-Code gangster flick? Only maybe Scarface (1932) can compete.

Oh how good is James Cagney, his fierceness, his charisma, his tragicness as well.

It has a speedy pace, it has a marvelous cast -- Jean Harlow is always a plus, in my opinion.

Yes, it is a classic story of the rise and fall of a gangster, but here is how it became a cliché. Very well done, and that last act is magnificent.

James Cagney was a gift to Hollywood.