People's Enemy, The

People's Enemy is a 1935 film directed by Sidney Salkow, starring Preston Foster, Lila Lee, and Melvyn Douglas. The film tells the story of a newspaper editor named John Baxter, who seeks to expose corruption and injustice in a fictional small town called Oakwood.

The film begins with John Baxter arriving in Oakwood to take over the local newspaper, the Oakwood Sentinel. He quickly becomes aware of the corruption and injustices that are occurring in the town, especially at the hands of the wealthy and powerful. Baxter is determined to use his position as an editor to expose these injustices and to fight for the rights of the people.

Baxter's efforts are met with resistance from the town's elite, who try to discredit him and his newspaper. However, Baxter continues to persevere and becomes a champion of the common people. Along the way, he is aided by his new-found love interest, Mary, who is a newspaper reporter herself and who shares his passion for justice.

Despite his efforts, Baxter's crusade against corruption ultimately puts him in danger. He is kidnapped by a group of thugs hired by the corrupt officials, and he is held captive in a secret location. However, he is eventually rescued, and he continues his fight against injustice until the very end.

The film's themes of corruption and social injustice are relevant to today, and its message about the power of the press to expose wrongdoing is as powerful now as it was in 1935. The film is also notable for its strong performances, particularly by Foster, who plays Baxter with conviction and energy.

Overall, People's Enemy is an engaging and inspiring film that encourages its viewers to stand up against corruption and to fight for what is right. Its message about the importance of a free and independent press is particularly relevant today, making it a film that is definitely worth watching.