City for Conquest is an excellent film from 1940. New York is the underlying subject, which is made clear by an oldtimer narrator (who never ages!). The city made for conquest is seen through the lives and careers of four childhood friends. The central figure is Danny (James Cagney), who becomes a boxer. He rises to a championship bout, but is beaten by illegal means, leaving him blind (at least temporarily). Peggy (Ann Sheridan), Danny's childhood sweetheart, has ambitions to become a headline dancer. She begins to rise to the top but is forced into a sexual relationship with her dance partner, played by a young and unsavory Anthony Quinn. She eventually gives up her dream to be with Danny. Future director great Elia Kazan plays Googie, who makes it as a gangster. But in the end, he is shot near the wharfs of the city. The last figure, Danny's brother Eddie (Arthur Kennedy), is a promising young pianist. Ultimately, he is the only one of the four to make a complete success, as he conducts his own symphonic poem "Magic Isle Symphony" at Carnegie Hall with the New York Philharmonic. The extended musical number provides a suitable climax to the film. The ensemble of actors is excellent, headed by the ever positive James Cagney. The stories are compelling, and the realism of dashed dreams is timeless. As with women in a number of films from this time, Peggy is punished for her ambitions by having to give up her virtue. The views of New York (all shot in the studio) are impressive, and the music of Max Steiner is typically excellent.Read full review
An excellent movie that I rank up there with "Angels with Dirty Faces". Cagney at his best.
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
This is one of my favorite Cagney movies,I waited a long while for this to become available.Was well worth the wait.This movie is a tribute to the human spirit.Today`s movies don`t compare with the classics of this era.The supporting cast is great,The character actors of that era made the movie what it is.The closing lines of this movie are heart wrenching.after all the hurt,this woman did to him,He says,Peg I knew someday you would pass by here,You`ll always be my girl.I am so grtateful to E-Bay for having this movie.I recommend this to everyone who wants wholesome entertainment,good acting and and feeling that there is always hope.
this is a excellent movie, with many of the great stars
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
This is one of James Cagney's best films! I enjoyed this movie immensely, and the plot was incredible. Ann Sheridan and Anthony Quinn also played fantastic roles. This is a must have for classic movie collectors!
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