thought id witnessed every wrinkle crimegangster flick offer garrettmarcinhammett combination pull genuine thrills surprises here thanks inventively forceful direction mamoulian atmospheric photography lee garmes plus remarkably sharp film editing flawless special effects brilliant acting helps too coop gives one convincing performances reticent hayseedturnedfearless bootlegger the sort character progression repeat roles sergeant york miss sidney pictured center first major role also eyeopener principals receive great support paul lukas wynne gibson stanley fields heavies even robert homans hardasnails detective movie obviously realized extensive budget brilliantly deployed realistic crowdfilled sets