Dead End (1937)

I do enjoy seeing actors who have long careers in their early works, in this case Sylvia Sidney who reminds me a lot of Marion Cotillard or that should be vice versa. I also enjoy seeing earlier works with Humphrey Bogart where he was part of a composite instead of a superstar headling the movie. Watching the beginnings of gentrification as the rich try to figure out ways to put pressure on their neighbors who were there first is what makes this film most interesting. The moralizing of the rich man on how to fix the rough hooligans is particular icing on the cake. I haven’t been fond of the Dead End Kids in other films I’ve seen; it seems their presence isn’t any more appreciated in this, their first appearance.  

Oscar Nominations: Best Picture; Best Actress in a Supporting Role; Best Cinematography; Best Art Direction