Watch The Phenix City Story

The Phenix City Story is a gripping and provocative crime drama from 1955 based on the true events that took place in the city of Phenix, Alabama back in the 1950s. Directed by Phil Karlson, the movie portrays the real-life story of a corrupt city ruled by gangsters and their unchallenged reign of terror. John McIntire stars as Albert Patterson, a promising young attorney who returns to his hometown of Phenix City to run for attorney general against corrupt incumbent, Rhett Tanner (Edward Andrews). But when his candidacy begins to gain traction and threaten the status quo of the town's criminal underbelly, he is mysteriously assassinated, leaving his son John (Richard Kiley) to take up the mantle and seek justice for his father's death.

Kathryn Grant portrays the love interest of John, a schoolteacher who serves as a voice of reason and morality in the midst of the town's lawlessness. Together, John and his allies launch a fierce campaign to expose the corruption plaguing the town and bring the guilty parties to justice.

The story is a brutally honest representation of the struggle for justice against institutionalized corruption, where evil thrives in broad daylight and even the law is powerless to fight against it. The film pulls no punches in detailing the brutality and violence that are commonplace in Phenix City, and highlights the difficulties and dangers of those who stand up against it.

The performances are top-notch, particularly Richard Kiley's portrayal of John Patterson as a man determined to carry on his father's legacy and fight for justice, despite the personal risks involved. The chemistry between Kiley and Grant is also particularly strong, adding a humanizing touch to the overall grim atmosphere of the film.

Director Karlson, who himself grew up in Phenix City, expertly captures the sense of despair and hopelessness that was present in the town at the time. The movie is shot in a gritty, noir-esque style that enhances the film's sense of realism and tension. In particular, the climactic scene where John confronts the town's corrupt leaders is a masterclass in tense and dramatic filmmaking.

The Phenix City Story is an important film that sheds light on a neglected part of American history. It offers a powerful commentary on the evils of corruption and violence that can flourish in the absence of law and order. Despite being made over six decades ago, the themes and messages of the film are still relevant and resonant today.

Overall, The Phenix City Story is a must-see for anyone interested in powerful, thought-provoking dramas that tackle important societal issues head-on. It is a reminder of the importance of vigilance against corruption and the need for courageous individuals who are willing to stand up against it.

The Phenix City Story is a 1955 crime movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 40 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.2.