An intrepid newspaperman (Cagney) is framed by political powerhouses he tried to bring down and ends up in prison at Rocky Point, where he forms an unexpected bond with a smooth-talking gangster (Raft). This is one film that bears closer and closer psychological inspection. Rich subtexts are evident throughout this absolute classic film, a combination of the gangster flick and the prison drama. Raft and Cagney, or course, are giants of both genres. Raft is at the top of his game as the only proactive character. There is truly fascinating character development as he moves from smooth mobster to cagey animal to "betrayed" friend to self-sacrificing hero. It puts the lie to the recent trend of belittling Raft's abilities. Of course, outside of prison, Raft gets to don his typically suave outfits - check out his first scene in the black shirt and white tie - and it's easy to understand why real gangsters of the era always tried to copy his look. Raft had been a fashion plate for a certain element of society even before he came to Hollywood. This is a particularly interesting role for Cagney, who will forever be king of the tough guys. As an innocent man here, he is more contained than would be expected if he were playing a bad guy, and his ultimate breakdown takes a surprising turn. He does so many small things, and like Raft, he has to guide his character through change after change. The climax - which makes even the viewer want to duck bullets and flying glass - contains an extended embrace that leaves plenty for interpretation, and it's absolutely lovely. One wishes these two tough guys had done so many more films together.
Review of Each Dawn I Die
