Dead End (1937)

Dead End (1937)

A very entertaining film with a very good cast which also includes "The Dead End kids" who later morphed into "the Bowery Boys" appearing in their first film. Produced by Samuel Goldwyn and directed by William Wyler who received an Oscar nomination it was filmed by noted cinematographer Gregg Toland (also nominated) and art director Richard Day (ditto). Lillian Hellman wrote the screenplay. An excellent example of the talent Goldwyn was able to cultivate this film is an early example of their talents.

Humphrey Bogart a nefarious character has returned home to the formerly rundown part of town near the docks from which he came to find that it has now been rejuvenated with expensive water-side apartments. Joel McCrea is a poor architect still living in the area who figures out who Bogart is even though he’d had plastic surgery. McCrea is attracted to Sylvia Sidney who as the older sister of their leader tries to keep the "Dead End Kids" in line. He’s also dating Wendy Barrie but she’s gotten to know the new ‘rich’ tenants. Majorie Main plays Bogart’s mom who rejects him for his past crimes. Claire Trevor (Best Supporting Actress nomination) plays Bogart’s former girl who’s now a prostitute. Allen Jenkins is an associate of Bogie’s. Ward Bond is the doorman of the apartments.

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