The Finger Points

Watch The Finger Points

"A reporter dares to expose Chicago Underworld."
  • NR
  • 1931
  • 1 hr 30 min
  • 5.9  (480)

The Finger Points is a 1931 American drama film directed by John Francis Dillon, starring Richard Barthelmess, Fay Wray, and Regis Toomey. The movie is about a young man named Breckenridge Lee, played by Richard Barthelmess, who moves to Chicago in search of success and fortune. He is a country boy who feels out of place in the big city but is determined to make his mark.

Breckenridge Lee is hired as a reporter at a newspaper, where he meets Marcia Collins, played by Fay Wray, the daughter of the paper's owner. She is a beautiful and ambitious woman who helps Breckenridge learn the ropes of the newspaper business. Breckenridge's hard work and dedication pay off, and he quickly rises through the ranks.

The movie takes a turn when Breckenridge discovers corruption within the newspaper industry. He learns that his own newspaper is in cahoots with a local politician to pay him off for favorable news coverage. Breckenridge is torn between his loyalty to the newspaper and his sense of ethics. He decides to expose the corruption, which puts him in danger from the corrupt politician and his henchmen.

The Finger Points is an absorbing drama that highlights the challenges that journalists face when trying to uncover the truth. The movie features a strong performance from Richard Barthelmess, who captures the innocence and naivety of Breckenridge as he navigates the cut-throat world of journalism. Fay Wray is also impressive as Marcia Collins, the savvy newspaper heiress who helps Breckenridge but also has her own ambitions.

The supporting cast is also excellent, especially Regis Toomey, who plays the role of Ed Jefferson, a fellow reporter who becomes Breckenridge's friend and ally. There are also noteworthy appearances by Clark Gable, who plays a gangster with whom Breckenridge becomes acquainted, and Oscar Apfel, who plays the corrupt politician.

The Finger Points was released during the pre-Code era in Hollywood, which means that it was made before the implementation of the Production Code, which regulated what could and could not be shown in films. The result is a movie that is refreshingly honest and raw in its portrayal of Chicago's newspaper scene. The movie is also visually impressive, with striking camera angles and artistic compositions.

Overall, The Finger Points is an engrossing movie that explores the ethical dilemmas faced by journalists. The storyline is compelling, and the performances are excellent, making this movie a must-see for fans of classic Hollywood cinema. While it may not be as well-known as other movies from the era, The Finger Points is certainly worth seeking out for anyone interested in the history of Hollywood or journalism.

The Finger Points
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Description
  • Release Date
    1931
  • MPAA Rating
    NR
  • Runtime
    1 hr 30 min
  • Language
    English
  • IMDB Rating
    5.9  (480)