On R List of Movie Reviews

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The Roaring Twenties (1939)

Rate: 9
Viewed: 10/08

10/08: The Roaring Twenties is Unforgiven of the 30's gangster pictures and rightfully so.

It basically carries the message that crime does not pay. The performances are excellent, and James Cagney once again delivers a winner. The more gangster pictures he does, the better he becomes at it. Having Humphrey Bogart on board is a treat.

I like the plot, although it can be formulaic, and the educational narrative reminds me a bit of Goodfellas. I actually learned more about the Great Depression and the stock market crash of 1929. When the ending comes, it's sad, hence the Unforgiven feeling.

All in all, thanks to The Roaring Twenties, Raoul Walsh solidifies himself as one of the better directors from the first half of the 20th century.

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