The read
Critics rate it 32 points higher than audiences do. It runs a compact 1h 12m.
Synopsis
At 10 years old, Owen becomes a ragged orphan when his mother dies. Abusive next-door neighbors the Conways take him in, and by 17, Owen has learned that might is right. At 25, he's a career gangster: loitering, gambling and drinking in dens of iniquity. Marie Deering arrives in Owen's area, eager to empower the impoverished, gang-affiliated youth through education. Owen slowly but surely leaves his old life behind, choosing the narrow path- all the while falling in love with Marie. Skinny, who's taken over Owen's role in the gang, reappears to him, spelling trouble.
Ratings
IMDb6.8/10
Rotten Tomatoes100%
Critics rate it 32 points higher than audiences do.
43 audience votes
Key crew
- Raoul WalshDirector
- Carl HarbaughWriter
- Raoul WalshWriter
Cast
- Rockliffe FellowesOwen [at 25] Conway
- Anna Q. NilssonMarie Deering
- William SheerSkinny
- Carl HarbaughAmes, District Attorney
- James A. MarcusJim Conway
- John McCannOwen [age 10]
- Harry McCoyOwen at 17 (as H. McCoy)
- Peggy BarnCast
- Maggie WestonMaggie Conway
Stills
Themes
silent film