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6/10
Archivist John
Senior Editor
A definitive 6/10 rating for a film that redefined the boundaries of cult cinema. Going Crooked remains a cornerstone of transgressive art.
Short answer: yes, but it's not for everyone. 'Going Crooked' is a film that works because of its gritty realism and the performances of its cast. It fails because of its dated dialogue and pacing issues. You should watch it if you're a fan of classic noir with a focus on character development and social issues.
It works. But it’s flawed. 'Going Crooked' is a film that benefits from its authentic portrayal of a complex crime tale, but the outdated language and editing choices sometimes detract from the overall experience.
Oscar Shaw and Bernard Siegel deliver solid performances as the gang leaders, bringing a sense of menace and determination to their roles. Bessie Love, in a supporting role, is particularly noteworthy for her emotional depth and nuanced portrayal of Marie, the disguised woman. However, the dialogue often feels stilted and the pacing can be slow, particularly in the courtroom scenes.
Howard Higgin's direction is competent, though the film's visual style is somewhat limited by its black-and-white cinematography. The scenes are well-composed, with a focus on capturing the gritty realism of the New York City setting. The use of shadow and light is effective in creating tension and atmosphere, but the editing can be choppy at times, particularly during the courtroom scenes.
The pacing is uneven, with moments of intense drama followed by stretches of dialogue-heavy scenes that can be tedious. The tone of the film is mostly noir, with a dark and realistic atmosphere, but there are occasional moments of levity that feel out of place.
Pros: Solid performances, particularly from Oscar Shaw and Bernard Siegel; effective use of shadow and light in creating tension and atmosphere; a complex crime tale that delves into social issues.
Cons: Dated dialogue and editing choices that can be jarring; uneven pacing that can be tedious in certain scenes; occasional moments of levity that feel out of place.
'Going Crooked' is a film that benefits from its authentic portrayal of a complex crime tale, but the dated language and editing choices sometimes detract from the overall experience. It's a film that rewards those who appreciate the nuances of classic noir, but it may not be to everyone's taste. It's a movie that demands patience and a willingness to engage with its slower pace, but the payoff is worth it for those who are willing to invest their time.
In conclusion, 'Going Crooked' is a solid entry in the classic noir genre, with standout performances and a focus on character development that sets it apart from some of its contemporaries. While it may not be a perfect film, it is definitely worth watching for those who appreciate the nuances of the noir genre and the performances of its cast.
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