Features: DVD
Editor's Note
Busby Berkeley, known mainly as a dance director, took a big chance with this tough little drama; his second feature after signing to MGM. The story, basically a remake of 1933's THE LIFE AND TIMES OF JIMMY DOLAN, chronicles the flight of a hard-drinking boxer (John Garfield) suspected of murder. While hiding out on an Arizona farm, he befriends the juvenile delinquents working there, and finds meaning to his life. Unfortunately, a persistent detective (Claude Rains) is on his trail, and closing in fast. Berkeley put his innovative choreography skills to good use in the fight and action scenes, and with the help of solid performances from his actors (especially the Dead End Kids, surprisingly affecting in non-comedy roles) established himself as a director capable of more than just musicals.
Plot Summary
Prizefighter Johnnie Bradfield (John Garfield) is a man on the run from a murder rap, and a misspent life. After taking refuge on the farm of a kindly old woman, he gets a second chance at goodness when he helps some juvenile delinquents working there (the Dead End Kids). It turns out Johnnie's a great influence on these troubled boys, but unfortunately a persistent detective (Claude Rains) starts closing in just as the happy ending seems in sight. This decided change of pace for dance director Busby Berkeley packs a mean punch, and a lot of heart.
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