Review of The Public Enemy (1931) by Brian S — 13 Jun 2009
A defining moment in gangster cinema of the 20s and 30s. although the plot isn't as intense or involved as films like Little Caesar or Angels with Dirty Faces, the story is ripe with groundbreaking subject-matter, namely sex and violent death.
James Cagney fits the typecast splendidly, and Jean Harlow is gorgeous, even if she's not the most brilliant actress. I could have done without the beginning and end script cards, but I guess they had to fit their moral message in somewhere.
not the best of its kind, but an enjoyable classic nonetheless.
This review of The Public Enemy (1931) was written by Brian S on 13 Jun 2009.
The Public Enemy has generally received very positive reviews.
Was this review helpful?
