The Public Enemy
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The Public Enemy
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Action Crime Drama

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Tom Powers and Matt Doyle are best friends and fellow gangsters, their lives frowned upon by Tom's straight laced brother, Mike, and Matt's straight l...aced sister, Molly. From their teen-aged years into young adulthood, Tom and Matt have an increasingly lucrative life, bootlegging during the Prohibition era. But Tom in particular becomes more and more brazen in what he is willing to do, and becomes more obstinate and violent against those who either disagree with him or cross him. When one of their colleagues dies in a freak accident, a rival bootlegging faction senses weakness among Tom and Matt's gang, which is led by Paddy Ryan. A gang war ensues, resulting in Paddy suggesting that Tom and Matt lay low. But because of Tom's basic nature, he decides instead to take matters into his own hands. Show More

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known as the Beer Wars. As tensions rise, Tom's actions become increasingly violent, causing tension between him, his brother, and his friends.

Tom's rise in power and his brutal actions eventually catch up to him. He finds himself in a dangerous situation when a rival gang kidnaps his brother and Molly. Tom is forced to make difficult decisions amidst the chaos, ultimately leading to a shocking conclusion.

The Public Enemy is a gripping crime drama set during the Prohibition era. Directed by William A. Wellman, the film showcases the life of Tom Powers and his friend Matt Doyle, who become involved in the bootlegging business. The film explores themes of loyalty, family dynamics, and the consequences of a life of crime.

The performances in the film are exceptional, particularly James Cagney as Tom Powers. His portrayal of a ruthless gangster offers a captivating look into the nature of power and violence. The film also features strong supporting performances from Jean Harlow, Joan Blondell, and Edward Woods.

With its gritty depiction of the criminal underworld, The Public Enemy is a timeless classic that continues to captivate audiences. The film's realistic portrayal of violence and its exploration of morality make it a must-watch for fans of crime dramas.