Watch Boys of the City

Boys of the City is a 1940 film directed by Joseph H. Lewis and starring Bobby Jordan, Leo Gorcey, and Hal E. Chester. This movie is a classic example of the Dead End Kids genre that was popular in the 1930s and 40s. The film follows a group of young boys who are sent to New York City to spend the summer with their friend Danny's uncle, a wealthy and eccentric man who lives in a large mansion on the outskirts of the city. However, things quickly take a dark turn as the boys become embroiled in a murder mystery involving a missing scientist and a group of ruthless gangsters.

Throughout the film, the boys are shown to be tough and street-savvy. They use their unusual skills to navigate the city and outsmart their enemies. The film also portrays the dangerous and violent nature of inner-city life, showing how the boys are forced to fend for themselves in a world that is often hostile and unforgiving.

One of the most impressive aspects of Boys of the City is the way it uses humor and lightheartedness to counterbalance the darker elements of the story. The film's comedic moments are genuinely funny and help to alleviate some of the tension and drama. For example, there's a hilarious scene where the boys use an old jalopy to chase down a gang of criminals, and another where they accidentally stumble upon a hidden room in their uncle's mansion.

The film's cast is also noteworthy. Bobby Jordan, who plays the leader of the Dead End Kids, is particularly impressive. He delivers his lines with a perfect mix of toughness and vulnerability, creating a character that is both likable and relatable. Leo Gorcey, who plays a smaller role in the film, is also excellent in his part, adding a sense of humor and irreverence to the proceedings.

Hal E. Chester, who produced and co-wrote the film, deserves credit for his contributions to the genre. His vision is evident in Boys of the City, which features a gritty and realistic portrayal of inner-city life that was groundbreaking for its time. Chester would go on to produce and write dozens of other Dead End Kids films, cementing his reputation as a pioneer of the genre.

Overall, Boys of the City is a classic example of the Dead End Kids genre. It's a gritty and realistic portrayal of inner-city life, filled with danger, violence, and humor. The film's impressive cast, tight script, and expert direction make it a must-see for fans of classic cinema.

Boys of the City is a 1940 comedy with a runtime of 1 hour and 8 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.6.