Great Guy

Great Guy is a 1936 American crime film, albeit with a heavy touch of drama and romance, starring iconic actor James Cagney. The film enjoys a fine selection of supporting actors, including the talented Mae Clarke and James Burke.

James Cagney ignites the screen with his captivating performance as the tenacious and gritty character Johnny "Red" Cave. Cave is an intrepid chief deputy in the New York City weights and measures department - a critical, albeit overlooked, part of the municipal structure that helps regulate consumer protection by inspecting and ensuring that things like gas stations, markets, and other establishments are not defrauding customers with unfair trading practices.

Cagney's characterization conveys an indelible portrait of honesty and integrity, showing viewers the timeless struggle between corporations and their consumers. His unwavering moral compass and exceptional zeal in performing his duties make Cave a target for the white-collar criminals who aim to control the city's intricate networks, marking him as the man standing between them and their questionable dealings.

As in most films featuring James Cagney, he brings equal parts toughness and charisma to his character, making Johnny Cave a compelling protagonist. Perfectly integrating that classic Cagney flair into his performance, viewers will stay hooked as they watch this hard-boiled market inspector rise above the pervasive corruption around him, constantly butting heads with the city's underbelly.

Mae Clarke, famed for her roles in horror and crime genres, plays Cave's love interest, Janet Henry, with both charm and elegance. Janet is a dedicated, supportive woman who stands by her man, matches his strength, and maintains her own strong moral compass. Beyond the romantic subplot, the film also explores the themes of politics, corruption, and crime, calling on genuine human emotions and societal realities of the time.

As Janet's No.1 supporter and among the movie's critical characters, James Burke as Patrick James 'Patsy' Clark holds his own, bringing humor and fast-paced dialogue that complements Cagney's electric presence. His memorable performance as Cave's sidekick provides the levity often needed when tackling a heavy subject matter, giving audiences a moment of respite amid intense scenes.

The directorship of John G. Blystone successfully crafts an intriguing narrative, steering clear of clichés and predictable twists that often plague crime dramas. Instead, his storytelling keeps you guessing and engaged, eager to see how Cave would outfox the city's criminal elements that have long been unchecked. Blystone's keen attention to the socio-political tones redefines the genre, ensuring that the film appeals to classic film fans and history buffs alike.

The film is further enhanced with a remarkable screenplay by Henry McCarty and Henry Johnson with a mesmerizing background score by Oliver Wallace. Viewers will appreciate the script's beautifully written dialogues, which are both realistic and engaging, providing an authentic feel of the time, while Wallace's music underscores the action and drama with precision and passion.

Furthermore, the cinematography by Joseph Valentine is truly notable, capturing the ebb and flow of the moments that drive the plot. Valentine utilizes black and white film to great effect, creating stark contrasts and textural visuals that enliven the cityscape and magnify the characters' emotions.

Overall, Great Guy is a splendid combination of crime drama and classic romance. It showcases the acting prowess of James Cagney and Mae Clarke, backed by an outstanding supporting cast, a sharp screenplay, and breathtaking cinematography. It offers viewers a nostalgic trip back to mid-nineteenth-century America while delivering a highly entertaining and riveting narrative, making it a must-see for film enthusiasts and fans of the genre.