SMART MONEY (1931)

 

Directed By: Albert Green

Written By: Kubec Glasmon, John Bright, Lucien Hubbard and Joseph Jackson 

Cinematography: Robert Kwirle

Editor: Jack Killifer 

Cast: Edward G. Robinson, James Cagney, Evalyn Knapp, Ralf Harolde, Noel Francis, Margaret Livingston, Maurice Black, Billy House 

Nick Venizelos, an immigrant Greek barber, has an uncommon affinity for poker and other sorts of wagering and a group of his friends bankroll him in a big game, where his weakness for pretty blondes is taken advantage of by sleazy operator Sleepy Sam who cleans him out in a rigged game. Nick accepts help from his buddy Jack as they turn the tables on the grifters, but triumph soon changes to tragedy.

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Recently have been watching many 1930’s films. Which is where one came across this one.

Though Watched this with extra enthusiasm because it starred two of my favorite classic actors On the big screen together  for one of the few times In Their careers. James Cagney and Edward G. Robinson. Though Cagney has the smaller supporting role. 

They both seem to have their big screen personas and attitudes but not as graphically or as much here yet 

Thought the film would be more of a comedy and not quite so serious.

This film made me really feel something, especially for the main character. He stayed identifiable throughout

The film is defitnely older and of it’s time period as it’s treatment of women and black characters are definitely old fashioned and in bad taste. As it is a pre-code film that is a representation of its times and politics.

 The film might not be the best considering the talent involved. Though it does tell its story swiftly and engagingly as it gets to the point.

Grade: B-