The Public Enemy - Gentleman Rating System

GRS Rating 5/5: No misuse of nudity, gore, language, violence, etc.

Title (Year): The Public Enemy (1931)

Age: 93 years
GRS Rating: 5 of 5

Notable Cast:

Duration: 1 hr, 24 min
Infractions: None.

Comments: Two boys start their criminal careers young with theft. They soon mature to robbery, especially once Prohibition begins. They make it big and become rich gangsters in the Mob.

I like the disclaimer in the Foreword of this film. It says the authors don't wish to glorify criminals, rather to present elements of American society. This Pre-Code film is known for James Cagney smashing a grapefruit in Mae Clarke's face. It really is unexpected and shocking! Like Little Caesar, this film tried to create a public concern about the gang activity in American cities.

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