Summary
- Angels with Dirty Faces
is a classic noir film from 1938 starring James Cagney and Humphrey Bogart. - The movie showcases themes of crime, religion, and redemption in a gripping black-and-white cinematography.
- Despite being 80 years old, the film holds a 100% rating on Rotten Tomatoes and is deemed Warner Brothers’ best gangster movie.
As a cinephile with a penchant for noir films that span decades, I must say that Angels With Dirty Faces is a masterpiece that stands the test of time. Having watched this iconic movie multiple times, I can attest to its timeless appeal and undeniable greatness. The combination of Ann Sheridan’s captivating performance, Cagney’s electrifying portrayal of Rocky Sullivan, and the atmospheric noir setting makes it a must-watch for any film enthusiast.
When considering Warner Brothers, what classic movies or series come instantly to mind? Could it be Christopher Nolan’s Batman Trilogy which started in 2005, or maybe the Harry Potter series that debuted in 2001? Perhaps you thought of The Matrix films released in 1999. Regardless of your choice (Warner Brothers has produced numerous box office successes), a black-and-white crime film from the 1930s is unlikely to be on your list. However, even though superhero, fantasy, and sci-fi genres have shone brightly at times, noir remains a category that will always hold a special place in cinematic history – and an Oscar-winning drama from 1938 serves as strong evidence of this.
Initially written by screenwriter and director Rowland Brown, famous for leaving several films over artistic differences, the closure of Grand National Films prompted the film’s lead actor, James Cagney, to propose the movie idea to Warner Brothers. Despite the film industry being only a decade past the introduction of talking pictures, Cagney had previously worked on numerous films with this studio, including ‘The Public Enemy’ (1931), ‘Footlight Parade’ (1933), and ‘G-Men’ (1935).
In the classic film “Angels with Dirty Faces,” the renowned actor gave an exceptional and spine-tingling performance that earned him the Best Actor award from both the National Board of Reviews and the New York Film Critics Circle. He portrays William “Rocky” Sullivan, a former gangster who is determined to retrieve $100,000 from a partner in crime he had worked with during a bank robbery long ago. The role opposite him was taken by Humphrey Bogart, an expert in the noir genre.
Crime vs. Religion in Angels with Dirty Faces
In this film, we encounter Pat O’Brien as Father Connolly, a childhood friend of Rocky’s, who later becomes a significant figure. Initially friendly, the priest transforms into a central plot element, spearheading an effort to eradicate corruption within New York City. The Dead End Kids skillfully manipulate the audience, tugging at our emotions based on Rocky’s actions. Despite their relative inexperience in this production, they excel at creating vibrant scenes. Ann Sheridan portrays Rocky’s romantic interest.
Despite the apparent struggles Warner Brothers Discovery (formerly known as Warner Brothers) is facing today, it was a powerhouse in the early 20th century. Although the movie may appear outdated when compared to contemporary WB hits like Barbie and Joker, its black-and-white cinematography remains unmatched in portraying tales of crime and religion. The climactic scene where Sullivan is dragged off for execution, begging for mercy as requested by Connolly, is a sight to behold. This intense, emotional moment is captured only as towering silhouettes on the wall. The Dead End Kids, initially captivated by Rocky’s presence, are now led away from their hidden lair and into beams of warm light – likely never to revisit their old ways again.
Angels with Dirty Faces Is a Perfect Example of Noir
Surprisingly enough, Cagney’s agent felt that his client’s tough-guy image in films exceeded the bounds set by the Rocky character. However, at the age of 39, the actor was eager to revisit this persona, although for a distinct purpose. This significant change in his role served as a proof to skeptics and studio executives that he possessed an exceptional versatility suitable for various genres. The gamble paid off, extending Cagney’s career for another 43 years, during which he starred in musicals, comedies, dramas, and adventure films (in addition to his signature genre). In light of Warner Brothers’ current challenges, the film Angels with Dirty Faces has gained lasting recognition from numerous organizations and individuals alike.
As a lifelong film enthusiast who has spent countless hours watching movies from all genres and eras, I can confidently say that “Angels with Dirty Faces” is one of the best noir films ever made. This 1938 Warner Brothers masterpiece not only holds a perfect 100% rating on Rotten Tomatoes but has also been praised by numerous critics and industry experts, including Steven Van Zandt, a well-known actor from The Sopranos.
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2024-08-24 05:31