Cast
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Thomas Meighan
as Police Captain James McQuigg
Louis Wolheim
as Nick Scarsi
Marie Prevost
as Helen Hayes
G. Pat Collins
as Patrolman Johnson
Henry Sedley
as Spike Corcoran
George E. Stone
as Joe Scarsi
Sam De Grasse
as District Attorney Welch
Richard 'Skeets' Gallagher
as Miller
John Darrow
as Cub Reporter Dave Ames
Lucien Prival
as Chick
Dan Wolheim
as Sergeant Turck
William H. O'Brien
as Detective Frisking Nick
Crew
Director
- Lewis Milestone
Writer
- Del Andrews
Producer
- Howard Hughes
Reviews
CinemaSerf
Louis Wolheim is superbly cast in this gangster drama as the nasty "Scarsi". He and his mobster pals rule the roost controlling the lucrative and illicit bootlegging and gambling businesses across the city. Those they can't bribe or coax they just blow away until, that is, the arrival of the almost Dickesnsianly named police captain "McQuigg" (Thomas Meighan). Initially it's the criminal who has the upper hand. Thanks to some well placed political and judicial influence, "Scarsi" stays free and clear - and he even manages to ensure his antagonist is relegated to a provincial beat where he can do no harm. Then luck takes an hand. "Joe" (George E. Stone) is the hoodlum's rather reckless younger brother and when he is picked up for a fatal hit and run, it sets up a complex sting operation that might finally bring down the kingpin once and for all. The story is quite well paced with a good dynamic between Wolheim, Meighan and an on-form Helen Hayes as the ambitious and not so choosy nightclub singer "Marie" - a woman ends up with a pivotal role to play in their scheme. The whole ensemble works well exuding degree of menace and hatefulness, of ambition and greed - and yes, there's even a slight hint of honour and decency too. The production is a bit limited, it does have quite a stagey and poorly lit look to it for most of the time, but the writing and characterisations help keep it well worth a watch - ideally with a live accompaniment if you can.
Mar 27, 2024
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, The Racket examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of a period setting that reflects societal issues of its time. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director Lewis Milestone brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1928, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of The Racket took approximately 8 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 84 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 110 minutes long.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- The musical score contains over 64 unique compositions.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 5 months to complete.
Historical Context
- In 1928, when this film was released:
- The civil rights movement was gaining momentum in the United States.
- The Cold War was intensifying, influencing global politics and culture.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While The Racket shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Mistress of a Foreigner, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, The Racket offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Pickup on South Street and The Woman Gives explore similar territory, The Racket stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: November 1, 1928
- Runtime: 1h 24m
