I'm not a big fan of the old gangster films. Way too many of them, and way too alike. But once in a while there's a gem. And this is one. It's refreshing because it's different. What could be more different than the penultimate gangster-actor (Edward G. Robinson) joining a monastery? There is some humor here, but it's not a comedy by any means.
While Robinson's character may have been the bad guy at the beginning of the film, Humphrey Bogart takes over and becomes the really-bad-guy that nobody is rooting for. Robinson hides out in a monastery, learns some valuable lessons about character, but then returns to the rackets...or does he?
Robinson was just great here, as was his co-star, Ann Sothern. Sothern is seldom remembered these days, but she darned good in her prime...and beyond. Humphrey Bogart is very good here also, and this film. This was probably the last film Bogart made before hitting true stardom.
So, sit bank and enjoy a fascinatingly different kind of gangster film.
While Robinson's character may have been the bad guy at the beginning of the film, Humphrey Bogart takes over and becomes the really-bad-guy that nobody is rooting for. Robinson hides out in a monastery, learns some valuable lessons about character, but then returns to the rackets...or does he?
Robinson was just great here, as was his co-star, Ann Sothern. Sothern is seldom remembered these days, but she darned good in her prime...and beyond. Humphrey Bogart is very good here also, and this film. This was probably the last film Bogart made before hitting true stardom.
So, sit bank and enjoy a fascinatingly different kind of gangster film.