City for Conquest

City for Conquest is a classic drama film from 1940, starring James Cagney, Ann Sheridan, and Arthur Kennedy in the lead roles. The movie was directed by Anatole Litvak and produced by William Cagney. It tells the story of two brothers, Danny and Eddie Kenny, who grow up in New York City and aspire to make it big in their respective fields. While Danny dreams of becoming a successful boxer, Eddie wants to be a talented composer.

The film is set against the backdrop of the Great Depression, a time when the country is gripped by poverty and unemployment. The opening scenes introduce us to the two brothers as youngsters, playing in the streets of their neighborhood. We see how Danny is always sparring with other boys in the area, a sign of his natural fighting instinct and a precursor to his future career as a boxer. On the other hand, Eddie is shown to be musically inclined, often humming tunes and composing melodies in his head.

As they grow older, the brothers' interests and talents become more pronounced, and we see them struggling to achieve their dreams in a tough and unforgiving world. Danny, played by James Cagney, is a talented boxer who dreams of becoming a champion. He trains hard and wins several fights, but the ruthless world of boxing threatens to crush him at every turn. He is also in love with a girl named Peggy, played by Ann Sheridan, who supports him in his quest for glory.

Eddie, played by Arthur Kennedy, is a gifted young composer who dreams of writing music for the world to hear. He works hard and gets a break when a famous conductor takes an interest in his work. However, his success is short-lived as tragedy strikes, and he is left paralyzed from the waist down after being hit by a truck. This marks a turning point in the film, as the focus shifts from Danny's struggle to become a boxing champion to Eddie's battle to overcome his disability and continue pursuing his passion for music.

The movie also features several subplots, including Danny's conflict with a corrupt boxing promoter, his friendship with a talented young boxer named Mutt, played by Frank McHugh, and his struggle to support his family and his girlfriend, Peggy. Meanwhile, Eddie's story also involves a doomed romance with a girl named Marie, played by the lovely Gale Page, and his attempts to compose music from his wheelchair.

The film's climax is a gripping and emotional one, as Danny faces his toughest opponent in the boxing ring, while Eddie struggles to perform his latest composition in front of a live audience. The tension builds to a heart-stopping moment that will have you on the edge of your seat. The ending is a bitter-sweet one, as the brothers' paths diverge, but they are forever linked by their love for each other and the indomitable spirit that drives them both.

City for Conquest is a classic film that has stood the test of time. It is a powerful and moving portrayal of the American Dream, and the struggles that ordinary people face in trying to achieve it. The film is also an excellent showcase for the talents of James Cagney, who delivers a memorable performance as the determined and passionate Danny Kenny. Ann Sheridan and Arthur Kennedy also shine in their roles, creating a trio of dynamic and complex characters who are easy to root for. Overall, City for Conquest is a must-watch for fans of classic cinema, and anyone who appreciates a good underdog story.