Watch Law of the Underworld
- Passed
- 2009
- 1 hr
-
5.4 (224)
Law of the Underworld is a thrilling crime drama from 1938 starring Chester Morris, Anne Shirley, and Eduardo Ciannelli. The story follows a newspaper reporter named Michael Cassidy, played by Morris, who goes undercover to expose a criminal enterprise that is terrorizing New York City. At the center of this enterprise is a ruthless gangster named Tony Gazotti, played by Ciannelli, who controls every illegal activity in the city, including gambling, smuggling, and extortion. Gazotti's power is so immense that he has corrupted the police department and the entire justice system.
Cassidy's mission is to gather evidence against Gazotti and his accomplices and bring them to justice. To do so, he goes undercover as a small-time hoodlum and befriends the gangster's right-hand man, a crook named Joe Garson, played by Anthony Quinn.
As Cassidy delves deeper into the underworld, he discovers shocking truths about the corruption that plagues the city. He uncovers a network of dirty cops, corrupt politicians, and influential businessmen who are all in Gazotti's pocket.
Despite the danger and the constant threat of exposure, Cassidy persists in his mission, determined to see justice prevail no matter what the cost.
The film's star, Chester Morris, delivers a powerful performance as Michael Cassidy, a flawed hero who is willing to risk everything to do what's right. Morris perfectly captures Cassidy's mix of courage, cunning, and vulnerability as he navigates the treacherous world of organized crime.
Anne Shirley also shines as the film's leading lady, a plucky and resourceful newspaper photographer named Irene Hayes who helps Cassidy gather evidence against Gazotti. Shirley brings a strong sense of conviction and determination to her role and proves to be a worthy partner for Morris's character.
Perhaps the most memorable performance in the film, however, comes from Eduardo Ciannelli, who delivers a chilling portrayal of the main villain, Tony Gazotti. Ciannelli's menacing presence and deep, gravelly voice make Gazotti a truly fearsome foe for Cassidy, and his ruthless tactics and utter lack of empathy make him a truly memorable cinematic villain.
Overall, Law of the Underworld is a gripping crime drama that provides a fascinating glimpse into the seedy underbelly of 1930s New York City. With its strong performances, taut direction, and compelling storyline, it is sure to satisfy fans of classic noir films and crime thrillers. If you're a fan of Chester Morris, Eduardo Ciannelli, or classic Hollywood cinema in general, this film is definitely worth checking out.
Law of the Underworld is a 2009 crime movie with a runtime of 1 hour. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.4.