The Big Shakedown

The Big Shakedown, a 1934 pre-Code Warner Brothers crime drama directed by John Francis Dillon, stars Charles Farrell, Bette Davis, and Ricardo Cortez. This exceptional production blends emotional connections, silver screen romance, and the gritty elements of organized crime to showcase the socio-economic struggles of the 1930s.

The film opens with Charles Farrell, who impeccably delivers the character of Jimmy Morrell, a principled yet naïve amateur boxer from New York. Jimmy's life revolves around the boxing ring, his pure love for his partner, and the pursuit of his simple dreams. However, his everyday struggle sustains the viewers with aspirational empathy. Away from the extravagant lifestyle of the genial millionaires and high-ranking moguls typically portrayed in films of this era, Jimmy's character represents the average Joe striving to maintain dignity and honesty amidst an era of economic depression.

The plot intensifies when the enchanting Norah, played by the legendary Bette Davis, enters the scene as Jimmy’s love interest. Davis brings an irresistible charm to the character of Norah—a charming, career-oriented pharmacy assistant in a local drugstore, eager to break out of her monotonous routine and meager pay. Her character not only provides a performance infused with sensitivity and emotional depth but also portrays the character of the urban working woman well ahead of her time. The chemistry between Farrell and Davis strikes such a believable chord that the audience roots for them from their first encounter.

An unexpected twist in the story takes place when the insolent yet intelligent mobster Dutch Barnes, wonderfully portrayed by Ricardo Cortez, enters their world. Barnes, a powerful figure in the illegal narcotics business, manipulates situations and people for personal gain without any regard for ethics or morality. His charm is dangerously inviting, and his ambitious schemes border the line of recklessness, thus presenting a stark contrast to Jimmy's humble life and honorable principles. Barnes' character vaguely channels a Robin Hood trope—albeit a twisted one—masterminding shrewd schemes that supposedly help the poorer sections of society while pilfering the pockets of the rich.

The Big Shakedown carefully crafts a narrative that doesn't merely exploit the popular subjects of 1930s crime dramas but also delves deeply into the human conditions of love, deceit, desperation, and the alarming lengths one is willing to go for survival. The movie highlights the grimy realities of the black market drug industry, outlines the hardened lives in the backdrop of the Great Depression, and makes a significant commentary on the devastating lengths individuals—despite their morals—might be driven to amid a time of economic despair.

In terms of cinematography, The Big Shakedown captures the spirit of the 1930s, transporting audiences back to the jazz age with beautifully lit sets, captivating sequences, and meticulous attention to period detail. Alongside, the film features heart-rending performances by Farrell, Davis, and Cortez, each portraying the triumphs and travails unique to their characters. Even the supporting cast, including Allen Jenkins and John Wray among others, lands convincing portrayals worth remembering.

Director John Francis Dillon's focus on storytelling, coupled with the strong script by Niven Busch and Rian James, sets this film apart. The dialogue is snappy and sherbet-sharp, particularly with Ricardo Cortez's verbose villainy. Moreover, the narrative resonates with timeless themes, making it fascinating and relevant even today.

The Big Shakedown ultimately provides more than an engaging tale of romance and crime-fighting. It offers a window into the lives of ordinary people grappling with harsh socio-economic realities during the Great Depression. This compelling mix of tender romance, heightened drama, and thrilling action makes The Big Shakedown a must-watch for fans of classic Hollywood cinema.