Lady Killer

Lady Killer is a thrilling 1933 pre-Code crime, action, and comedy film, directed by Roy Del Ruth and produced by First National Pictures, a subsidiary of Warner Bros. The film stars the legendary James Cagney, portraying a rough-and-tumble man from New York City, who, after getting involved in criminal activities, becomes a leading Hollywood star. The palpable tension is offset with cleverly interspersed moments of comedy, making the film a true gem of the era. It masterfully combines the underworld, showbiz, violence, and humor with a unique charm typical of the early 1930s Hollywood.

The film begins in the crowded theater houses and rough streets of New York, where James Cagney, portraying Dan Quigley, hustles as a movie theater usher before he's sacked for manhandling customers. Cagney's performance is electric, and he sparkles with charisma and menace, bringing his small-time gangster vibe to the forefront right from the start.

After losing his job, Quigley unwittingly becomes a part of a con ring headed by Spade Maddock, played by Douglass Dumbrille. His love interest and partner in crime is Myra Gale, brought to life by Mae Clarke. Clarke is perhaps best remembered from an earlier Cagley film where she was recipient of a grapefruit to the face – a stinging scene that has become an iconic moment in cinematic history. Mae Clarke's performance as the worried yet loyal girlfriend brings a sense of humanity and warmth to the otherwise harsh criminal world.

As the story progresses, Quigley moves from being a pawn in the con game to becoming its mastermind. However, his rapid climb up the criminal ladder attracts police attention, forcing him to leave the city and head to Los Angeles.

The movie takes an interesting turn when Quigley, on the run from the cops, accidentally lands a job as a film extra in Hollywood, and his natural talent shines. Quigley’s charisma lands him stardom in numerous films, making him a Hollywood sensation almost overnight. The spectators are treated to a fascinating, satirical take on old Hollywood – the vanity, the artifice, and the quick fame.

Margaret Lindsay plays Lois Underwood, Cagney's chic love interest in Hollywood. She shares a captivating and stylish romance with Cagney, offering a stark contrast to his earlier chaotic relationship with Myra Gale.

Intriguingly, the film cleverly blends the two seemingly disconnected worlds of crime and Hollywood. Quigley’s past inevitably hunts him down, leading to an adrenaline-pumping, action-packed finale that illustrates the collision of his old and new lives. The narrative is intelligently constructed to keep viewers on the edge of their seats, wondering what might occur in the next scene.

The direction by Roy Del Ruth is firm, refined, and inventive with powerful use of montage effects and speedy transitions. The juxtaposition of Quigley’s past and present life is masterfully depicted. Ruth uses innovative camera tricks to intensify critical moments in the film, amplifying the movie's dramatic effect. The memorable soundtrack, complementing different moods, keeps you fully engaged and amplifies the emotional impact of each scene.

Without a doubt, Lady Killer is spearheaded by James Cagney's charismatic performance characterized by his rugged charm, potent energy, and impeccable comedic timing. His portrayal of a conman-turned-movie-star is gripping, resonating his quick-witted nature and streetwise attitude. Cagney fluidly transitions between Quigley’s past as a small-time crook and his new life as a Hollywood star, effortlessly maintaining the balance between comedy and thrills.

Mae Clarke's performance is sensitive and subtle, beautifully portraying the nuances of her complex character. The chemistry she shares with Cagney contributes to their believable on-screen relationship. Margaret Lindsay's character lends a touch of glamour and sophistication to the film, pulling audiences right into the Golden Era of Hollywood.

A unique blend of crime, drama, action, and humor, Lady Killer presents an engaging narrative with thrilling sequences and a whip-smart script. It layers crime and comedy with a backdrop of 1930s Hollywood glam juxtaposed with the dark New York underworld. Each actor delivers an exceptional performance that brings depth to their characters, rendering them endearing and memorable. The pacing of the narrative and intensity of the plot maintains a constant buzz of excitement throughout the film. By combining the charm of classic Hollywood, the electrifying performance of James Cagney, and a sharply written plot, Lady Killer stands as an underappreciated classic well worth a watch.