Dangerous Youth

In the 1957 movie "Dangerous Youth," George Baker plays Detective Sergeant Burns, a no-nonsense cop tasked with investigating a rash of teenage delinquency in London. Alongside him is a young and fresh-faced Frankie Vaughan, who portrays Cliff, a former gang member turned informant.

The plot of the film follows the two as they try to uncover the inner workings of a gang led by the charismatic and ruthless Frankie (played by David McCallum). Frankie's gang terrorizes the streets, robbing local businesses and assaulting innocent bystanders.

As the investigation unfolds, Detective Burns and Cliff gain the trust of some of the gang's members, including Frankie's girlfriend, played by Carole Lesley. The detectives learn of Frankie's plan to pull off a daring heist and must move quickly to stop it before innocent lives are lost.

Throughout the film, the relationship between Burns and Cliff develops, with the older and more experienced detective taking the young informant under his wing. In one emotional scene, Burns warns Cliff of the dangers of being consumed by the gang lifestyle and encourages him to turn his life around.

"Dangerous Youth" offers a gritty and realistic portrayal of teenage delinquency in post-war London, with the film drawing inspiration from real-life incidents at the time. The film doesn't shy away from the violence and danger associated with the gang lifestyle, making it a compelling watch from start to finish.

George Baker's portrayal of the gruff, straight-talking Burns is a standout performance, and his camaraderie with Frankie Vaughan's character adds a touching human element to the film. Frankie Vaughan, known primarily as a singer before this film, shows surprising range and depth in his role as Cliff.

Carole Lesley, as Frankie's girlfriend, also delivers a solid performance, bringing depth and nuance to what could have been a one-dimensional character. The film's supporting cast also adds to the overall quality of the production.

The movie's setting and cinematography are also notable, showcasing a bleak and gray post-war London that serves as the perfect backdrop for the gritty story. The use of real-life locations and the decision to shoot on location instead of in a studio adds to the film's authenticity and believability.

In summary, "Dangerous Youth" is a well-crafted and compelling crime drama that offers a realistic portrayal of teenage delinquency in London's post-war era. With strong performances from the lead actors and a compelling story, the film is a must-watch for fans of the crime genre.