Review of Manhattan Melodrama (1934) by Scott R — 22 May 2017
Seems like the two-friends-grow-up-on-opposite-sides-of-the-law plot of 'Manhattan Melodrama' should have been fairly stale even by 1934, but if not the case, then the film's stars don't quite manage to elevate this story above middling fare.
William Powell and Myrna Loy are good, but not as charming together as they'd later prove to be in 'The Thin Man'. As the lead, Powell also comes off a bit stiff. Gable gets the best part -- a charming-but-loyal criminal pal to Powell -- and makes the strongest impression here by far.
Not bad, but more of note as the film John Dillinger saw when he was shot by police than for anything onscreen.
This review of Manhattan Melodrama (1934) was written by Scott R on 22 May 2017.
Manhattan Melodrama has generally received positive reviews.
Was this review helpful?
