Watch The Racketeer

The Racketeer, a 1929 film directed by Howard Higgin, is a classic crime drama set in the era of Prohibition. The movie stars Robert Armstrong as Spike, a ruthless bootlegger who runs a successful network of illegal liquor sales in the city. Spike's enterprise is threatened when his chief competitor, a rival bootlegger, is killed in one of his speakeasies.

The movie opens with Spike's network being infiltrated by a young undercover police officer, Dan (Roland Drew), who poses as a buyer to gather evidence against Spike. At the same time, a glamorous society woman, Rhoda (Carole Lombard), who is bored with her privileged life, starts frequenting Spike's seedy club in search of excitement. Rhoda's presence at the speakeasy puts her in danger, as she inadvertently becomes involved in Spike's criminal activities.

As the story unfolds, Spike learns about Dan's real identity and decides to take matters into his own hands. He orders his henchmen to kidnap Dan and force him to reveal the identity of the police informer. The tension builds as Rhoda finds herself caught in the crossfire between the rival bootleggers and is forced to make a choice between loyalty and betrayal.

The Racketeer stands out as a quintessential film of the era in of its visual style and themes. The movie is a stunning example of early Hollywood's gangster film genre, with its shadowy, urban scenes and swift action sequences. The gritty realism of the film, combined with its stark black-and-white cinematography, creates a tense atmosphere that is both thrilling and dangerous.

Robert Armstrong gives a standout performance as Spike, the tough-talking, hard-drinking bootlegger who is willing to do whatever it takes to stay on top. Armstrong brings an intensity and charisma to his role that make him a compelling anti-hero. Lombard, in one of her earliest films, plays the role of Rhoda with a mix of charm and vulnerability that is both alluring and dangerous. Her character's journey from bored socialite to criminal accomplice is a testament to Lombard's versatility as an actress.

Roland Drew's Dan is the film's moral center, a dedicated officer determined to bring down Spike's criminal enterprise. Drew's performance showcases the character's courage and determination, as well as his conflicted feelings about Rhoda.

The Racketeer is also notable for its portrayal of women in the male-dominated world of crime. Rhoda is a complex character who defies the stereotype of the ive, helpless female character. Although she initially seems like a naive and vulnerable socialite, Rhoda becomes increasingly self-aware as the movie progresses. She eventually takes control of her own destiny, making tough choices in order to survive in a world that is hostile to women.

Overall, The Racketeer is a thrilling and suspenseful film that exemplifies the style and themes of early Hollywood's gangster movies. Its memorable performances, stunning visuals, and gripping storyline make it a classic of the genre.