God damn that’s some fine film work.
The Racket
1928 ‧ Black and white/Drama ‧ 1h 24m
7/10 IMDb
100% Rotten Tomatoes
In this Prohibition-era silent film, James McQuigg (Thomas Meighan) is an honest police captain in a city ruled by gangsters and corrupt politicians. McQuigg tries repeatedly to arrest Nick Scarsi (Louis Wolheim), a bootlegging kingpin, but can’t get charges to stick. After rejecting Scarsi’s bribes, the incorruptible McQuigg is transferred out of town, but refuses to be intimidated. When Scarsi’s younger brother is caught in a hit-and-run, McQuigg attempts to take down the criminal underworld.
Initial release: June 30, 1928
Director: Lewis Milestone
Producer: Howard Hughes
Music composed by: Robert Israel
Production company: Paramount Pictures
Screenplay: Harry Behn, Bartlett Cormack
The Racket Love Theme
THE RACKET (1928). An honest police captain is determined to bring his city’s crime boss to justice. This is a scene between gold digger Helen and cub reporter Ames–she actually has the integrity not to lead on the young man because she likes him. Original music composed by Robert Israel.