This film begins with the election of Franklin Roosevelt and an end to Prohibition. As Edward G. Robinson is the head of a gang selling illegal liquor, he knows his days of riches and glory are over. Instead of continuing in a life of crime, he wants to return in style and live among the gentry. The only problem is that although he thinks he's got class, he's a total clod...a likable clod, but a clod nonetheless. And, in society, he sticks out like a sore thumb. He is only accepted, eventually, by some selfish swells who only want him around for a chance to drain him of his money. The problem is that Robinson is such a sucker, he has no idea he's being played. At the same time, his personal secretary (Mary Astor) has fallen for him and she knows what sort of people his new "friends" really are but is afraid to tell him.
Despite Robinson being an ex-crook AND chump, he's excellent here because no matter what he was like, you can't help but feel sorry for him. There is a certain vulnerability and charm about him--making this film work very well. He also seemed to have a nice knack for comedy--something that would become very apparent with later successes such as THE WHOLE TOWN'S TALKING and LARCENY INCORPORATED. His friend and sidekick, Russell Hopton, is also quite good--and it's surprising that he didn't get more work with such excellent performances.
Overall, this is one of the best gangster flicks of the 1930s. Exceptionally well written and acted, and especially great in the end. Fully of laughs and wonderful moments--especially when his friends from Chicago come to save the day. A film not to be missed.
Despite Robinson being an ex-crook AND chump, he's excellent here because no matter what he was like, you can't help but feel sorry for him. There is a certain vulnerability and charm about him--making this film work very well. He also seemed to have a nice knack for comedy--something that would become very apparent with later successes such as THE WHOLE TOWN'S TALKING and LARCENY INCORPORATED. His friend and sidekick, Russell Hopton, is also quite good--and it's surprising that he didn't get more work with such excellent performances.
Overall, this is one of the best gangster flicks of the 1930s. Exceptionally well written and acted, and especially great in the end. Fully of laughs and wonderful moments--especially when his friends from Chicago come to save the day. A film not to be missed.