Gangster's Boy
Gangster's Boy

Movie spotlight

Gangster's Boy

1938
Movie
80 min
English

A popular high school valedictorian and star athlete becomes a pariah when it's discovered that his father is a former bootlegger.

Insights

IMDb6.2/10
Director: Frank McDonaldGenres: Crime, Drama

Plot Summary

A young orphan boy, Tommy, is taken in by a kind-hearted gangster who provides him with a comfortable life. However, Tommy idolizes his benefactor, unaware of his criminal activities. When the gangster is arrested, Tommy is left to navigate the harsh realities of his guardian's world, facing difficult choices about his own future and the meaning of loyalty.

Critical Reception

The film was a modest B-movie production, typical of the era, aiming for a youthful audience and exploring themes of delinquency and redemption. While not a critical darling, it was seen as a serviceable crime drama with a decent performance from its young star.

What Reviewers Say

  • A straightforward, if somewhat predictable, crime drama.

  • Features a compelling lead performance by Jackie Cooper.

  • Explores the consequences of a life of crime for both adults and the impressionable youth.

Google audience: Audience reviews are scarce for this older film, but general sentiment suggests it's a solid, albeit unspectacular, depiction of its era's gangster-themed narratives.

Fun Fact

This film is one of several 'gangster' movies targeted at younger audiences during the late 1930s, attempting to address or capitalize on the public's fascination with organized crime figures.

AI-generated overview · Verify ratings on official sources

My Review