hrkepler
There are two highly strong reasons two see 'White Heat'. The film is masterfully directed by Raoul Walsh, beautifully scored, and well casted, with every actor being in top of their game. Still - the two reasons that make 'White Heat' must see for not only every film-noir and crime aficionado, but everyone interested in film ever, as 'White Heat' is one of the best screenplays ever written. The story is well structured, nothing important is left out and there aren't any empty time fillers. Every character is well developed and with motivation that drives them. The tension and pace goes up with the very first scene and never falls until the great finale is over. This screenplay should be ultimate example how to write action packed, but character and story driven movie.The second reason this film is must see, is because James Cagney's layered performance. It might seem hammy at first, but his portrayal of tough gang leader who is too much dependable of his mother is actually brilliant.Only the highest praises can be said about this movie. 'White Heat' is highly recommended to anyone.
Richard Chatten
Jimmy Cagney was in his fiftieth year when he made this return to the gangster genre, and looks it. But age has neither mellowed him nor slowed him down in this consummate star vehicle with all the trimmings (including a haunting score by Max Steiner - who gets a separate title card all to himself).'White Heat' is inconceivable without Cagney, but he's surrounded by a top supporting cast, most of whom aren't even named in the credits (I particularly liked G.Pat Collins as the old lag with the hearing aid), with Margaret Wycherley unforgettable as the meanest mama since Ma Barker. 'White Heat' begins by showing it means business with an incredibly violent train hold-up; after which Cagney continues to display a wanton lack of respect for human life right up to the end. But being Cagney you can't help rooting for him, and he and Edmond O'Brien (usually unfairly overlooked in discussions of this film) are both such charismatic presences that it's almost heartbreaking to see them bond while knowing all along that O'Brien is simply a police plant. Although we're told well before the end that Cagney is by now hopelessly insane with only brief periods of lucidity, he still seems perfectly functional until the very, very end. (His retelling of the story of the Trojan Horse is particularly cherishable).For a late forties thriller much of the film actually takes place in the Southern California sun; and the use of locations throughout is exemplary, culminating in the oil refinery on 198th Street and Figueroa, near Torrance, which provides Cagney with a suitably imposing backdrop for his big scene at the end.
Antonius Block
This gangster film has it all – well-planned heists, cold-blooded murders, fast cars, double-crosses, snappy dialog, sophisticated criminals, and just as sophisticated cops. It's very smart, and Director Raoul Walsh keeps us on our toes without wasting a single moment in telling this story. Most of all, it has James Cagney, who is just fantastic. The film is both dark both in how it's shot, a classic film noir, and in its tone, as Cagney's character is sociopathic, wracked by migraines, and possibly insane. He is supported by a great cast, including Margaret Wycherly in the memorable role as his mother, whose toughness and depravity is gradually revealed. Edmond O'Brien is also strong in the role of the undercover G-man.One theme in the film is how easily (and violently) criminals will betray one another. Another is how advanced forensic and crime-fighting technology was in 1949, which is both impressive and may make you smile. The two of those put together serve as a strong anti-crime message, likely influenced by the production code, and yet, the film is gritty and pushes boundaries, so that it doesn't feel like a morality tale. Character motivations feel authentic. There are several iconic moments, the ending of course, but also Cagney returning and surprising his wife (Virginia Mayo) in the garage, and later staring at a rival (Steve Cochran) through the crack of a door. He is absolutely chilling when angry, and one can't help but be impressed by the great range he showed over his career. If you're in the mood for action and a dark crime film, 'White Heat' is very satisfying.
Richard Dominguez
White Heat The Godfather Of Gangster Movies ... James Cagney As The Gangster Cody Jarrett Set The Mold For All Gangsters That Came After Him And In Comparison Have Yet To Measure Up (Keyser Soze, Coming The Closest And He Didn't Even Exist) ... Edmond O'Brien Is Excellent As The Undercover Agent Sent To Befriend Cody ... Virginia Mayo's Performance As Cody's Moll Is Convincing ... And Margaret Wycherly As Cody's Mom (The Only Person Cody Trust) Is Brilliant As The Loving "Ma Parker" Type ... The Movie Keeps An Excellent Pace And Has No Down Time ... Direction By Raoul Walsh Was Tight And Well Planned ... Well Written Script Rounds Out This Spectacular Story And Big Screen Blockbuster ...
AD
