Details
Movie Description
Based on the novel by Aben Kandel, CITY FOR CONQUEST tells the heartbreaking but hopeful tale of Danny Kenny (James Cagney) and Peggy Nash (Ann Sheridan), two sweethearts who meet and struggle through their impoverished lives on the Lower East Side of New York City. When Peggy, hoping for something better in life for both of them, breaks off her engagement to Danny, he sets out to be a championship boxer, while she becomes a dancer in a nightclub (with sleazy partner Murray, as played by the commanding Anthony Quinn). However, tragedy soon strikes and it appears that the two might never be reunited. With a beautiful, ironic ending, excellent dialogue, and strong, poignant performances, CITY FOR CONQUEST is one of director Anatole Litvak's most inspired films.
Synopsis
A poignant and absorbing look at love, deprivation, and, ultimately, hope, CITY FOR CONQUEST showcases the dynamic James Cagney as Danny, a truck driver turned boxer, and Ann Sheridan as Peggy, an aspiring dancer. When the devoted couple go their separate ways and try to rise out of the poverty in the ghetto of New York's Lower East Side, tragedy ensues.
Film Notes
James Cagney, an accomplished dancer and amateur boxer, trained for his role as the boxer Danny, and, in many scenes, exchanged real, hard blows with his opponents in the ring.
Elia Kazan, who plays Danny's friend Googi, made his directorial debut five years later with A TREE GROWS IN BROOKLYN, and became one of Hollywood's greatest directors.
Arthur Kennedy made his film debut as Danny's musically gifted brother Eddie. Kennedy later was nominated for an Academy Award for his role in PEYTON PLACE, and went on to star in many other films like LAWRENCE OF ARABIA.
Raoul Walsh, director of THE THIEF OF BAGDAD and HIGH SIERRA, was originally slated to direct CITY FOR CONQUEST.
Studio head Jack Warner originally asked Ginger Rogers to play Peggy, but other commitments prevented her from taking the role.
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