The Big Shakedown 1934
"A New Type of Racket Exposed! In This Thrilling Underworld Drama"
Step into the gritty world of 1930s crime dramas with *The Big Shakedown (1934)*, a tense underworld tale directed by John Francis Dillon.
Director: John Francis Dillon
Cast
Charles Farrell
Jimmy Morrell
Bette Davis
Norma Nelson
Ricardo Cortez
Dutch Barnes
Glenda Farrell
Lily 'Lil' Duran
Allen Jenkins
Lefty
Henry O'Neill
Mr. Sheffner
Dewey Robinson
Slim
John Wray
Higgins
Philip Faversham
John
Robert Emmett O'Connor
Regan
Frequently Asked Questions
What is The Big Shakedown (1934) about?
In this 1934 crime drama, former bootlegger Dutch Barnes pressures a local pharmacist into producing and selling counterfeit cosmetics and drugs. The film explores the dangerous intersection of desperation, greed, and crime in Prohibition-era America.
Who directed The Big Shakedown?
The film was directed by John Francis Dillon, known for his work in early Hollywood crime and drama films.
Who stars in The Big Shakedown?
The cast features Charles Farrell as Jimmy Morrell and Bette Davis as Joan Barnes, with Ricardo Cortez, Glenda Farrell, and Allen Jenkins rounding out the ensemble.
Is The Big Shakedown (1934) worth watching?
*The Big Shakedown* may not be a household name, but it offers a compelling snapshot of pre-Code crime dramas. With a runtime under 65 minutes, it's a quick, engaging watch for fans of classic noir and early Hollywood storytelling.
How long is The Big Shakedown?
The film runs for 61 minutes, making it a concise and fast-paced viewing experience.
About The Big Shakedown (1934) — A Prohibition-Era Crime Drama with Charles Farrell and Bette Davis
Step into the gritty world of 1930s crime dramas with *The Big Shakedown (1934)*, a tense underworld tale directed by John Francis Dillon. The film follows Dutch Barnes, a former bootlegger with a ruthless streak, as he coerces a local pharmacist into producing counterfeit cosmetics and pharmaceuticals to sell on the black market. Set against the backdrop of Prohibition-era America, this drama thrives on moral ambiguity and the blurred lines between law and crime.
Starring Charles Farrell and Bette Davis in early-career roles, the film blends sharp performances with a shadowy atmosphere, capturing the desperation and opportunism of its characters. With a runtime of just over an hour, *The Big Shakedown* delivers a compact but impactful narrative that explores themes of corruption, survival, and the cost of ambition. Whether you're a fan of classic crime films or curious about pre-Code Hollywood, this movie offers a compelling snapshot of a bygone era.
