Watch Smart Money

Smart Money, released in 1931, is a classic American crime drama film that revolves around the relationship of two friends, Nick Venizelos (Edward. G Robinson) and Jack (James Cagney). Nick is a successful barber who gambles on the side, while Jack is a young waiter with a passion for gambling. Both of them dream of hitting the big time, and their fortunes change when Nick decides to move to the big city to try his luck at the gambling tables.

Nick makes a name for himself in the gambling underworld, and his success pulls in Jack as well. Together, they run a successful gambling operation, but the friendship between the two men is tested when they fall for the same woman, a showgirl named Marie (Evalyn Knapp). Marie quickly becomes the source of conflict between the two men, and their relationship becomes strained as they both try to win her affections.

The story takes place against the backdrop of the gambling world, which is portrayed as a dangerous and cutthroat industry. The movie highlights the key characteristics of the gambling world, including the risks, the allure of the big win, and the fear of losing it all. The sets and the costumes reflect the era in which the film was made, and the dialogue and acting style of the characters are classic examples of early 1930s cinema.

The film is notable for its cast, which includes Robinson and Cagney, two of the most celebrated actors of the era. Robinson plays the role of Nick Venizelos with his characteristic panache, creating a complex and layered character that appears both sympathetic and ruthless. Cagney, on the other hand, is effective in playing the young and naive Jack, who is drawn into the dangerous world of gambling by his friend.

The character of Marie, played by Evalyn Knapp, is also noteworthy. She is portrayed as a typical showgirl trying to get ahead in the world. She is attracted to Nick's success and Jack's innocence, and this creates a dynamic tension between the characters that is both compelling and dangerous.

Overall, Smart Money is a classic example of early 1930s cinema. The film is effectively directed by Alfred E. Green and features a strong script that captures the essence of the gambling world. The performances are excellent, with Robinson and Cagney delivering standout performances. The film is not without flaws, but it is still a gripping and entertaining crime drama that is sure to delight fans of classic cinema.

In conclusion, if you're a fan of classic American crime dramas, Smart Money is definitely worth watching. It features a strong cast, a compelling story, and a gripping portrayal of the dangerous world of gambling. While it may not be perfect, it is still a classic film that is sure to entertain audiences today, just as it did in 1931.

Smart Money is a 1931 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 21 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.8.