Smart Money 1931
"Just a small-town barber who became a "big-shot" gambler-riding high and handsome until he went balmy for a blonde!"
In *Smart Money (1931)*, Alfred E. Green crafts a gripping tale of ambition and downfall, set against the neon-lit backdrop of 1930s urban excess.
Director: Alfred E. Green
Cast
Edward G. Robinson
Nick 'The Barber' Venizelos
James Cagney
Jack
Evalyn Knapp
Irene Graham
Ralf Harolde
Sleepy Sam
Noel Francis
Marie
Margaret Livingston
District Attorney's Girl
Maurice Black
Greek Barber
Billy House
Irontown Salesman-Gambler
Paul Porcasi
Alexander Amenoppopolus
Gladys Lloyd
2nd Cigar Stand Clerk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Smart Money (1931) about?
*Smart Money (1931)* follows two brothers whose visit to a big-city gambling den takes a dark turn, dragging them into a world of high stakes and dangerous alliances. Their once-simple trip spirals into a tale of fate, greed, and the cost of chasing fortune against all odds.
Who directed Smart Money?
Alfred E. Green directed *Smart Money*, helming this crime drama with a keen eye for tension and character-driven storytelling.
Who stars in Smart Money?
The film features standout performances from Edward G. Robinson, James Cagney, Evalyn Knapp, Ralf Harolde, and Noel Francis as the central players in this high-stakes drama.
Is Smart Money (1931) worth watching?
*Smart Money (1931)* is a solid pick for fans of pre-Code crime dramas, thanks to its sharp dialogue and Robinson-Cagney chemistry. While unrated today, its themes of ambition and consequence still resonate, making it a worthwhile watch for classic film enthusiasts.
How long is Smart Money?
*Smart Money* runs for 81 minutes, a tight runtime that keeps the story moving briskly through its gritty narrative.
About Smart Money (1931) — A Crime Drama Classic with Robinson and Cagney
In *Smart Money (1931)*, Alfred E. Green crafts a gripping tale of ambition and downfall, set against the neon-lit backdrop of 1930s urban excess. The film follows two brothers whose innocent trip to the city's gambling dens spirals into a high-stakes tragedy, exploring themes of luck, loyalty, and the seductive allure of easy money. With Edward G. Robinson and James Cagney delivering powerhouse performances as men whose lives unravel under the intoxicating glow of temptation, the movie crackles with tension and raw energy. The crime drama's shadowy cinematography and sharp dialogue paint a vivid portrait of a society teetering on the edge of moral collapse.
This pre-Code gem blends suspense with dark humor, offering a snapshot of an era when the rules of the game were still being written. As the brothers navigate a world of high rollers and shady dealings, their bond is tested in ways that leave audiences questioning where ambition ends and self-destruction begins. A fascinating snapshot of early sound-era filmmaking, *Smart Money (1931)* remains a compelling watch for fans of gritty, character-driven dramas.
