Top Ten Movie We Forget
Whenever I tell someone my all time list of favorite films I have to include Manhattan Melodrama. Yes, it was filmed way back in 1934, but, like Gone With the Wind it was ahead of its time. What made it ahead of its time was the King....alias Clark Gable. While other stars of that era appeared to be acting Gable was just being himself. He was a man's man....tough, rugged, suave, strong, passionate, funny and admired by both men and women worldwide.
For Gable, it was the perfect role. He played Blackie Gallagher, gambler, rackateer and ladie's man. But, this rackateer had a conscience. He also had loyalty to his friends which is what this movie is about.
Two things make this a terrific movie. First is the storyline which has an unforgettable ending. It reminds me of the ending of "A Tale of Two Cities". Not the same ending, but, with the same dramatic intensity that stays with you forever. Second is the acting of Gable and William Powell. Powell is one of the all time greats. Watch for Mickey Rooney in a small role as a child.
I won't give the story away, but, will give you just a little insight to grab your interest. Two boys grow up on the other side of the tracks in poverty. One boy takes the easy way out with vice and corruption. The other finds his way to education and public service. There paths meet in violence and their friendship is strained. This film will tear at your heart and have you second guessing what you would do in their places.
Incidentally, this is the film that John Dillinger went to see on the night he was gunned down by federal agents.
Do yourself a favor and get this movie on a night when you have nothing to interfere and sit back and enjoy a true Hollywood legend and a legendary film.