The Abe Lincoln of Ninth Avenue - 1939 - Remastered Edition

The Abe Lincoln of Ninth Avenue, a release of 1939, is an engrossing drama that marries the gritty realities of street life with the power of will, determination, and intellect. Directed by William Nigh, this classic film employs the impeccable talent of Jackie Cooper, young star of the iconic Our Gang series, who takes on a mature and defining role for the first time. Martin Spellman and Marjorie Reynolds accentuate the movie with their skilled performances, contributing to the incredible depth and richness that make this film timeless.

Set in the bustling grandeur of New York City in the 1930s, the narrative unfolds in Ninth Avenue, a neighborhood wrestling with economic disarray and poverty. Amidst these challenging conditions, we meet Cooper's character, Jimmy Keenan, a firmly grounded, intelligent, and determined youngster, positioned as the guiding light. He sees education as a means to break away from the enduring hardship, setting the stage for an inspiring story of ambition and resistance against life's bitter trials.

Despite his difficult circumstances, Jimmy manages to retain his moral compass. The film observes his struggle to maintain an honorable path in a neighborhood marked by delinquency. His biggest battle is against societal circumstances that inevitably drag youth toward unlawful paths, a theme that forms a colossal part of the narrative. This challenging world is brought alive by the secondary characters, including Martin Spellman's 'Gimpy,' who provides a counterpoint to Jimmy's adherence to righteousness.

Reynolds' character, as part of the storyline, feeds off her interaction with Cooper, and their characters' chemistry offers multiple layers of depth to the film. Additionally, what makes The Abe Lincoln of Ninth Avenue truly astounding is the sweeping realization of New York City during the Depression Era. The camera so vividly captures the essence of street life that the city itself is a significant character in the film, breathing life and authenticity into the storyline.

The clear underpinning inspiration of Jimmy's character is Abraham Lincoln, a cultural icon embodying perseverance, honesty, humility, and a firm commitment toward education. Such parallels contribute to the film’s underlying theme of resilience in the face of adversity. The tale of ascending from poverty through sheer will and intellect invokes the legendary journey of Lincoln from a log cabin to the White House, thereby making the title of the film apt.

The Abe Lincoln of Ninth Avenue contends with issues like poverty, crime, and the importance of education, thus transcending beyond mere entertainment. It serves as a compelling journey into the resilience of the human spirit, a statement on society, and a testament to the power of ambition, all set against the backdrop of a truly remarkable era. Through thoughtfully developed characters and elegantly penned dialogue, the film attempts to immerse the audience in a world markedly different from the glamour usually associated with Old Hollywood.

The remastered version of this 1939 classic enhances the overall viewing experience, making this cinematic gem more accessible to the current generation of movie enthusiasts. The remastered edition significantly improves the video and audio quality, allowing viewers to fully appreciate the movie's storytelling, performances, and the distinct cinematic style of its era. This facelift in technology doesn't distract from the original essence of the film, but rather accentuates it, carrying forward its legacy to a modern audience.

The Abe Lincoln of Ninth Avenue leaves an indelible impression with its powerful narrative and commendable performances. The brilliant direction and nuanced portrayal of life amidst hardship make this classic film a must-watch for classic cinema lovers and historians. The tale of grit, hope, endurance, and the transformative power of education remains as relevant today as it was in 1939. It ensures that this movie isn't just a step back into history but a testament to the timelessness of its themes. It engages, enthralls, and leaves the viewer contemplating long after the screen darkens, making The Abe Lincoln of Ninth Avenue a truly immersive cinematic experience.