I Am a Criminal 1938
"Bullet-blazing drama of the man in the headlines...and the story behind them!"
William Nigh's gripping crime drama, *I Am a Criminal (1938)*, unfolds a tense tale of manipulation and redemption set against the gritty backdrop of 1930s gangster culture.
Director: William Nigh
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is I Am a Criminal (1938) about?
This crime drama follows a gangster who uses a young newsboy to manipulate his manslaughter trial, only to find his own hardened heart softening as the boy's admiration grows. When his scheming moll plans to rob him, the newsboy's intervention forces a reckoning between crime, loyalty, and redemption.
Who directed I Am a Criminal?
William Nigh directed this crime thriller, known for his ability to craft atmospheric and tension-filled narratives in the pre-Code era.
Who stars in I Am a Criminal?
The film features John Carroll as the gangster, Kay Linaker as his moll, and Craig Reynolds among its lead cast.
Is I Am a Criminal (1938) worth watching?
As a crime drama, *I Am a Criminal (1938)* offers a tight plot and moral complexity that set it apart from typical gangster flicks. Its 72-minute runtime keeps the pace brisk, and the themes of influence and redemption add depth—making it a solid pick for fans of classic crime cinema.
How long is I Am a Criminal?
The film runs for 72 minutes, delivering a concise yet impactful viewing experience.
About I Am a Criminal (1938) — When a crime drama's moral dilemma meets a child's unexpected heroism
William Nigh's gripping crime drama, *I Am a Criminal (1938)*, unfolds a tense tale of manipulation and redemption set against the gritty backdrop of 1930s gangster culture. The story centers on a convicted gangster who, facing a manslaughter trial, recruits an innocent 10-year-old newsboy to sway the jury in his favor. As the young boy's admiration for the gangster grows, so does the criminal's unexpected moral awakening—until his manipulative moll complicates the stakes by plotting to rob him. With unforeseen consequences unfolding, the newsboy's innocence becomes the unexpected catalyst for change.
Directed with sharp precision by Nigh, this 72-minute film blends crime thriller tension with a surprisingly heartfelt exploration of loyalty and redemption. The atmosphere crackles with danger and intrigue, while themes of influence, moral conflict, and unintended consequences linger long after the final shot. A standout in pre-Code crime dramas, *I Am a Criminal (1938)* delivers a compelling mix of suspense and emotional depth.