The Shakedown (1929 film)
The Shakedown is a 1929 action/comedy/sports drama film, directed by William Wyler and starring James Murray, Barbara Kent, and Jack Hanlon.
| The Shakedown | |
|---|---|
 Theatrical release poster | |
| Directed by | William Wyler |
| Produced by | Carl Laemmle, Jr. |
| Written by | Charles Logue Clarence Marks |
| Starring | James Murray Barbara Kent |
| Music by | Joseph Cherniavsky |
| Cinematography | Jerome Ash Charles J. Stumar |
| Edited by | Richard Cahoon Lloyd Nosler |
| Distributed by | Universal Pictures |
Release date |
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Running time | 70 min |
| Country | United States |
| Language | English |
| Budget | 50,000$ |
Considered a part-talkie, the film was released in parallel silent and sound versions. Once believed lost, The Shakedown was discovered and restored by the staff of the George Eastman House in 1998. Director William Wyler made the move up to talking pictures with this blend of action and comedy.
Synopsis
Dave Roberts (James Murray) is a professional boxer better at losing in fixed matches than in knocking out his opponents. He turns up in towns and is part of a group who sets up corrupt boxing matches. Dave's life on the margins changes after he meets a mother and son. As he begins to care for them, he ultimately has to decide whether to continue in his low-life ways or turn the tables on those who have been forcing him to participate in them.
Cast
- James Murray as Dave Roberts
- Barbara Kent as Marjorie
- George Kotsonaros as Battling Roff
- Wheeler Oakman as Manager
- Jack Hanlon as Clem
- Harry Gribbon as Dugan
- John Huston as Extra (uncredited)
- Annabelle Magnus as Little Girl (uncredited)
- George Marion as Screaming Fight Spectator with White Beard (uncredited)
- Jack McHugh as Boy that fights Clem (uncredited)
- Jack Raymond as Salesman (uncredited)
- Harry Tenbrook as Manager's Henchman (uncredited)
- William Wyler as Photographer at Fight Arena (uncredited)