Short Cut to Hell

Short Cut to Hell is a gripping 1957 crime film directed by the iconic James Cagney. Starring a host of impressive talents of the era, including William Bishop, Robert Ivers and Georgann Johnson, it holds a unique standing in the annals of film noir. This movie is a remake of the legendary 1942 classic "This Gun for Hire" and is the only film directed by Cagney.

The film features Robert Ivers, who portrays the role of Kyle Niles, a cold-blooded hitman, with a ruthlessness that's startlingly effective. Niles is a complex character, seemingly emotionless yet with a personal moral compass that doesn't entirely align with society's view of right and wrong. Ivers gives an excellent performance, capturing the character's nerveless, cold as ice demeanor and showcasing the ennui and bitterness lurking beneath the surface.

William Bishop plays police detective Nick Harbin, a man entirely committed to his duty. Harbin is methodical, unrelenting, and cunning, with a singular focus on bringing criminals to justice, no matter how long it takes or the risks involved. Bishop excels in this role, bringing an intensity and authenticity that anchors his character as the moral counterpoint to the more ambiguous Niles.

Georgann Johnson takes on the role of Glory Hamilton with a mix of vulnerability and toughness that characterizes many heroines in the genre. Glory is a nightclub entertainer who becomes entangled in the violent world of organised crime when she unwittingly becomes a vital witness to a crime committed by Niles. As Glory, Johnson brings an air of innocence tarnished by the harsh realities of her world yet not leaving her entirely cynical or hard-hearted.

In Short Cut to Hell, the worlds of these three individuals collide in dangerous and unpredictable ways, with consequences that ripple outwards and impact the lives of other characters in the film. The plot is a weave of tension, suspense, and high drama that keeps viewers wholly engrossed from beginning to end, with plenty of twists and turns that keep audiences guessing about what's coming next. The movie weaves together the shadowy underworld of organised crime, the relentless drive of law enforcement, and the innocents caught between these two worlds.

Director James Cagney, better known for his acting than his directing, brings a certain flair to the film that helps it to stand out. His portrayal of the film's dark underworld is done with a gritty realism that makes it all the more engaging. The sets, camera angles, lighting, and music all work together to create a palpable sense of ominous foreboding, while at the same time emphasizing the humanity and complexity of the characters.

The film's greatest strength, however, is probably its screenplay, credited to Roy Huggins. Huggins provides dialogue that is sharp, intelligent and at times surprisingly humorous. It adds an extra depth to the characters and their interactions, drawing viewers further into the story and investing them more deeply in the plot. Each turn of phrase brings new insight into the character's mind and heart, making their actions, no matter how irrational or unreasonable they may seem, strangely relatable and understandable.

As a commentary on duty, morality, and the struggle of individuals caught between these conflicting forces, Short Cut to Hell is a thoroughly compelling film. It captivates viewers with its intense character study and high-stakes plotline, while still maintaining a graphic noir style that fans of the genre appreciate. Even if viewers are not fans of film noir, they will be captivated by the performances of Ivers, Bishop, and Johnson.

Despite being overshadowed by later, more famous film noir offerings, Short Cut to Hell remains a worthwhile watch for its interesting exploration of grey areas in law, morality, and the human condition. Whether you're a fan of crime dramas, classic film noir, or complex character studies, you'll find something to appreciate in this underappreciated gem from the late 1950s. The film is certainly a testament to the style and perseverance seen in the golden era of Hollywood film-making.