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San Quentin (1937)

Rate: 7
Viewed: 6/07

SanQue
6/07: Although a small-time prison picture that's semi-outstanding, San Quentin is ruined by the ending probably because of the Hays Code.

I've never heard of Pat O'Brien before, but seeing him act now, he has made a fan out of me. I'm impressed with his natural acting ability. He does a remarkable job of transforming his cool character into somebody with leverage against a dangerous convict who's played by the ever-wonderful Humphrey Bogart. As his sister, Ann Sheridan is excellent.

Because of the ridiculous ending, it ruins what Humphrey Bogart's character stands for. Moreover, it eradicates what the premise is supposed to be about. I was thinking more of the captain being killed by Red and there would be some meaning derived behind the murder. Unfortunately, it didn't happen that way because the criminal had to die which is typical of 30's Hollywood pictures.

All in all, if the ending had been done correctly, San Quentin would look better.