DVD Pick:-->"White Heat" (1949)

"Maybe I can love you
Maybe be your friend.
Maybe I can help you
Your troubles to mend.
Maybe sing a song for you
That's what I know best to do.
Anything you want me to...I'll be."
Dave Mason
NO SPOILERS:
On watching this film...I was surprised by two things. The first was James Cagney's appearance. He was much older than I expected...with a paunchy face and build.

The second thing I noticed...was how 5'8" Cagney completely dominates every scene he is in. Kinetic energy seems to just ooze from his body...making him appear even more capable of blowing his fuse at any moment. Cagney is that good.

"White Heat"...skillfully directed by Raoul Walsh is a fast paced cops & robbers film that allows Cagney to have a ball. Not only does he get to return to his bad guy gangster ways... But the role also calls for Cagney to be a little insane in the membrane...allowing him to push the envelope even further.

The film revolves around Cody Jarrett (James Cagney), his controlling Ma (Margaret Wycherly in an unforgettable role) and his gang who successfully pull a caper...taking in over $300,000. Big money for the times.
Cagney muscling a prison stooge (Edmond O'Brien)
Learning the police may be on to him...Cagney voluntarily turns himself over to the coppers for a small-time robbery he didn't commit...thus taking the heat off of him and his gang. He'll do short time in jail...then hook up with Ma and the ol' gang for some more loot-grabbing.

Of course...the police have other plans.
Virginia Mayo...Did I hear someone say...sassy?
Virginia Mayo is allowed to be terrifically...trampy...throughout "White Heat"...rubbing shoulders with whoever can best satisfy her needs. Mayo...and I mean this in the best way...easily looks like an all-day amusement ride...ready to take anyone's ticket.

Interesting police techniques...for the time...are demonstrated throughout this film and will remind viewers of how far our crime-busting skills have advanced.

"White Heat" is a good story made better thanks to James Cagney dishing out bruises and bullets like they were Jelly-Bellys on sale at Mr. Bulkys. Pretty good supporting cast, as well. Good Stuff.

Must See Moments:
Watch Cagney as he receives information in the prison cafeteria about his Ma. Famously shot in one take.
Also listen for the now famous line delivered by Cagney..."Made it, Ma! Top of the World!".

Casey

Dave Mason:-->"Maybe" (It's Like You Never Left) (1973)
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