Review of The Racket (1951) by Dustin R — 06 Feb 2008

THE RACKET.

Dir. John Cromwell.

Based on the play by Bartlett Cormack, this noir remake of the 1928 film pits a decent cop determined to clean up his district against a ruthless crime boss named Nick Scanlon (Robert Ryan) with plenty of officials on the take.

Ryan is a force of wonder in this film. Even standing completely still he seems to vibrate with energy. He plays Scanlon with a mesmeric intensity that is equally matched with that of Robert Mitchum as Captain Thomas McQuigg. McQuigg is the classic cop that can't be bought. Mitchum plays him with a piercing stare and eyes that do not flicker. Their scenes together are powderkegs just waiting to be blasted into eternity by one false move. Lizabeth Scott plays club singer Irene Hayes, a throwaway character that Scott provides with a hint of glamour and dry sophistication. Scott has some sharp dialog and a snappy, curt delivery that is disarming and biting.

The story is a basic cops and robbers tale with mobsters playing the role of villian. Scanlon is a dapper, controlled figure who McQuigg wants to see take the rap for something that will stick. Scanlon has managed to escape justice because he has people in high places working for him. There's a man named Welsh (Ray Collins) who Scanlon intends on making a judge. Det. Sgt. Kirk (William Conrad) is a seedy sort who seems to be working both angles. On the other side is good cop Bob Johnson (William Talman); he's eager to earn his good guy badge as McQuigg's right hand man.

The fight sequences are fairly credible and there is a slight hint of danger in the air at all times. Set designs are minimal as most of the film takes place in a number of found locations or outside. Overall, this film works as a vehicle for both Robert Ryan and Robert Mitchum. Lizabeth Scott's part is rather superfluous although she makes the most out of her limited screen time. The ending is a bit disappointing and predictable as it satisfies the edicts of standard noir aesthetics.