The Big Shakedown
Former bootlegger Dutch Barnes pressures neighborhood druggist Jimmy Morrell into making cut-rate knockoff toiletry, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical products.
Insights
Plot Summary
A charming con artist named "Handsome" Norman Emery arrives in a new town and quickly sets his sights on the wealthy and influential women there. He manipulates them for their money, all while dodging the authorities and navigating a complicated relationship with a lounge singer.
Critical Reception
The Big Shakedown was a modest success upon its release, noted for its pre-Code sensationalism and fast-paced narrative. While not critically acclaimed by today's standards, it is appreciated by genre enthusiasts for its early example of film noir elements and daring subject matter for its time.
What Reviewers Say
- Praised for its energetic pacing and pre-Code daring.
- Often cited for its early use of film noir aesthetics.
- Seen as a decent example of a crime drama from the era.
Google audience: Audience reception data for this film is not readily available on Google.
Fun Fact
The film is noted for pushing the boundaries of censorship with its suggestive themes and situations, characteristic of the pre-Code Hollywood era.
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