Mr. Ace

Mr. Ace is a fascinating American film noir from 1946 that explores the world of politics, ethics, and romance. The film intertwines elements of political drama with romance in the backdrop of a post-war American society. Directed by Edwin L. Marin, and starring the notable George Raft, Sylvia Sidney, and Stanley Ridges, Mr. Ace tells the tale of a slick and manipulative political fixer, a principled idealist and the woman caught in their crossfire.

George Raft plays Eddie Ace, the eponymous "Mr. Ace," a political kingmaker known for his ruthless and cunning approach. Ace's character is one that is emblematic of the gritty realities of the smoke-filled backroom politics of the 1940s. Raft delivers a stirring performance, flawlessly portraying the pragmatic and opportunistic nature of his character. The confident and charming exterior conceals a man who is not afraid to play dirty if it means gaining an advantage.

Sylvia Sidney stars as Margaret Wyndham Chase, the idealistic, noble, and charismatic socialite who has decided to step into the world of politics. Sidney's performance as Margaret is mesmerizing, bringing to the screen an impressive display of emotional depth and strength. Margaret is the embodiment of integrity and principle, a stark contrast to the world of politics she is seeking to enter.

Stanley Ridges complements the main cast as the calculating and unscrupulous political henchman. Ridges' portrayal adds a subtle yet significant dimension to the narrative, highlighting the often-unseen underbelly of the political arena.

Mr. Ace commences with Margaret deciding to run for a congressional seat, having the belief that she can bring change and fight corruption within the system. However, she soon learns that political success often requires more than just noble intentions. The seasoned political operator, Eddie Ace, is brought in to ensure her electoral victory. Despite their initial ideological differences, the film brilliantly explores the dynamic relationship between Eddie and Margaret. Eddie, with his political cunning and street smart strategies, and Margaret, with her steadfast morality and principled approach, form an unwilling alliance that presents a captivating study in contrast.

Director Edwin L. Marin skillfully layers the narrative with underlying themes of moral dilemma, romantic tension, and nuanced character development. The film subtly unpacks the question of whether the end justifies the means. While Margaret originally views Eddie's strategies as morally ambiguous, she is forced to reconcile her principles with the harsh realities of politics.

The romantic subplot woven into the narrative adds an additional layer of complexity. While their professional relationship is fraught with tension, Eddie and Margaret's personal relationship evolves in an unexpected manner, adding a fresh twist to the storyline. The romantic tension between Eddie and Margaret adds an interesting and unexpected dimension to the narrative, resulting in a fusion of political drama and romance, masterfully executed.

The film's 1940s setting serves as the perfect backdrop for this story, mirroring the state of American society during this pivotal period. The costumes, set design, and overall visual aesthetic of the film faithfully recreate the atmosphere of the mid-20th century. The cinematography, with its characteristic film noir aesthetic, lends an additional sense of authenticity to the proceedings.

Furthermore, the supporting cast, including Roman Bohnen, Jerome Cowan, and Sara Haden, puts in solid performances, helping to ground the storyline and enhance the main plot. Their work enriches the film, further illustrating the complexities of each character and their individual roles within the narrative.

In essence, Mr. Ace is a captivating blend of drama, romance, and political intrigue. The film provides a brilliant peek into the machinations of politics, showing us that things are rarely black and white. The performances by George Raft, Sylvia Sidney, and Stanley Ridges effectively bring this multi-layered plot to life. From the gripping story to the intriguing characters, Mr. Ace is an engaging cinematic experience, a fine testament to Hollywood's golden age. It is an especially recommended watch for those who enjoy film noir and films that aren't afraid to delve into the complexities of politics and morality.