Lightning reviews are first impressions of movies I’ve yet to research for more detailed articles. Unlike my more polished full reviews there is little to no research here; sparse images and links; a more relaxed writing style. These are movies I’d love to eventually cover with a more fully developed article, but until time permits, here’s the short version:Ambitious B-movie from director John Farrow at RKO uses star Victor McLaglen in a way that feels very Gypo Nolan … McLaglen’s character in this a little too carefree about killing a cop for audience to really get behind him … Barry Fitzgerald’s nightwatchman pegged for the murder committed with his gun … McLaglen arrested on comparatively minor burglary charge, attempting to steal coat for girlfriend played by Sally Eilers … Joseph Calleia is the local priest, who visits McLaglen in jail, and calls on Fitzgerald’s family regularly … I’m used to seeing Calleia playing mobsters, crooks, and killers, so was surprised at how effective he was here … Calleia so soft-spoken that he really makes you hang on his every word … Calleia works to get McLaglen paroled, but isn’t successful until after McLaglen’s suffers near-mortal injury that leads to a full confession from what he supposes is his death bed … With McLaglen free, and innocent man Fitzgerald facing the death penalty, Calleia begins to haunt McLaglen … Quietly he’s around every corner … favorite scene comes when Calleia begins smashing Eilers’ prized new set of ten cups, comparing them to all of the Commandments that McLaglen has shattered … some surprises as the climax unfolds, but it all leads where expected … McLaglen isn’t always an actor I always like, but Farrow gets the best out of him, even if his character seems a bit more despicable than intended …. quality work from all four leads, especially Calleia, and the director … my IMDb rating: 6/10.
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