James Cagney, one of Hollywood’s most versatile and dynamic actors, left an indelible mark on cinema with his powerful performances and magnetic screen presence. Known for his roles in gangster films, musicals, and dramas, Cagney’s career spanned over five decades. Here, we explore ten of his best movies, showcasing the breadth and depth of his talent.
1. Yankee Doodle Dandy (1942)
“Yankee Doodle Dandy” is a biographical musical film about George M. Cohan, a famous playwright, composer, and performer. Directed by Michael Curtiz, the film features James Cagney in one of his most celebrated roles. Cagney’s portrayal of Cohan is energetic and captivating, highlighting his dancing and singing abilities. His performance earned him an Academy Award for Best Actor, demonstrating his versatility beyond the gangster roles for which he was initially known. The film’s patriotic themes and Cagney’s magnetic performance make “Yankee Doodle Dandy” a timeless classic.
2. White Heat (1949)
In “White Heat,” directed by Raoul Walsh, James Cagney delivers one of his most iconic performances as Arthur “Cody” Jarrett, a psychopathic criminal with a mother complex. The film is a hard-hitting crime drama that explores Jarrett’s violent and volatile nature. Cagney’s portrayal of Cody is intense and chilling, culminating in the famous final scene where he declares, “Made it, Ma! Top of the world!” The film’s psychological depth and Cagney’s tour-de-force performance make “White Heat” a standout in the gangster genre and a must-watch for any Cagney fan.
3. Angels with Dirty Faces (1938)
Directed by Michael Curtiz, “Angels with Dirty Faces” is a crime drama that pairs James Cagney with Pat O’Brien, who plays Father Jerry Connolly, a priest trying to steer local boys away from crime. Cagney plays Rocky Sullivan, a gangster and childhood friend of Father Jerry. The film explores themes of redemption and moral responsibility. Cagney’s portrayal of Rocky is both charismatic and tragic, capturing the complexity of a man torn between his past and the possibility of change. The film’s powerful ending and Cagney’s nuanced performance earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor.
4. The Public Enemy (1931)
“The Public Enemy,” directed by William A. Wellman, is one of the most significant gangster films of the early 1930s. James Cagney stars as Tom Powers, a young man who rises through the ranks of the criminal underworld during Prohibition. Cagney’s portrayal of Tom is raw and electrifying, capturing the character’s ruthlessness and ambition. The film’s unflinching depiction of violence and crime, along with Cagney’s breakout performance, cemented his status as a leading actor in Hollywood. “The Public Enemy” is essential viewing for its historical significance and Cagney’s riveting performance.
5. Love Me or Leave Me (1955)
“Love Me or Leave Me” is a biographical musical drama about the life of singer Ruth Etting, played by Doris Day, and her tumultuous relationship with gangster Martin “The Gimp” Snyder, portrayed by James Cagney. Directed by Charles Vidor, the film showcases Cagney’s ability to play complex and morally ambiguous characters. His portrayal of Snyder is both menacing and vulnerable, capturing the contradictions of a man who is both a ruthless gangster and a devoted lover. Cagney’s performance earned him another Academy Award nomination for Best Actor, highlighting his talent for blending toughness with emotional depth.
6. Footlight Parade (1933)
In “Footlight Parade,” directed by Lloyd Bacon and featuring choreography by Busby Berkeley, James Cagney stars as Chester Kent, a Broadway director trying to save his career by producing innovative musical numbers. The film is a lively and entertaining musical that showcases Cagney’s versatility and charisma. His energetic performance, particularly in the dance sequences, demonstrates his exceptional talent as a performer. “Footlight Parade” is a delightful film that highlights Cagney’s ability to shine in the musical genre, offering a break from his more serious roles.
7. Mister Roberts (1955)
“Mister Roberts,” directed by John Ford and Mervyn LeRoy, is a comedy-drama set on a cargo ship during World War II. James Cagney plays Captain Morton, the tyrannical and petty captain of the ship, opposite Henry Fonda’s Lieutenant Doug Roberts. Cagney’s performance as Captain Morton is both humorous and antagonistic, capturing the character’s blend of incompetence and authority. The film’s exploration of the dynamics between the crew and their captain, along with Cagney’s memorable performance, makes “Mister Roberts” a compelling and entertaining watch.
8. The Roaring Twenties (1939)
“The Roaring Twenties,” directed by Raoul Walsh, is a crime drama that chronicles the lives of three war veterans who become bootleggers during Prohibition. James Cagney stars as Eddie Bartlett, a former soldier who turns to a life of crime. The film explores themes of friendship, loyalty, and the impact of war on individuals. Cagney’s portrayal of Eddie is both charismatic and poignant, capturing the character’s descent into the criminal underworld and his ultimate downfall. The film’s blend of action, drama, and historical context, along with Cagney’s powerful performance, makes “The Roaring Twenties” a standout in his filmography.
9. The Strawberry Blonde (1941)
Directed by Raoul Walsh, “The Strawberry Blonde” is a romantic comedy that stars James Cagney as Biff Grimes, a good-hearted but unlucky dentist who falls in love with a beautiful woman named Virginia, played by Rita Hayworth. The film is a lighthearted and charming story that showcases Cagney’s comedic timing and ability to play romantic leads. His chemistry with Hayworth and co-star Olivia de Havilland adds depth to the film’s love triangle. “The Strawberry Blonde” is a delightful film that highlights Cagney’s versatility and charm in the romantic comedy genre.
10. Ragtime (1981)
“Ragtime,” directed by Milos Forman, is a historical drama set in the early 20th century that weaves together multiple storylines, including the rise of a black pianist and the trial of a wealthy businessman accused of murder. James Cagney plays Police Commissioner Rhinelander Waldo in a supporting role. Although his screen time is limited, Cagney’s performance is a significant part of the film’s narrative. “Ragtime” is notable for being Cagney’s final film role before his retirement. His return to the screen after a twenty-year hiatus adds a layer of poignancy to his performance, making “Ragtime” a fitting conclusion to his illustrious career.
Conclusion
James Cagney’s illustrious career is marked by a wide range of performances that have left a lasting impact on the history of cinema. From his iconic roles in gangster films like “White Heat” and “The Public Enemy” to his award-winning performance in “Yankee Doodle Dandy,” Cagney demonstrated remarkable versatility and talent. Each of these ten films showcases different aspects of his acting prowess, making them essential viewing for any fan of classic Hollywood cinema. Whether you are drawn to his intense portrayals of criminals or his charismatic performances in musicals and comedies, James Cagney’s body of work offers a rich and varied tapestry of cinematic excellence.