The Public Enemy

The Public Enemy

Year: 1931

Runtime: 83 min

Language: English

Director: William A. Wellman

DramaCrime

During the 1920s in Chicago, Tom Powers and Matt Doyle rise from poverty through petty theft and bootlegging, quickly escalating to brutal violence. Their notoriety brings them into conflict with both the police and rival gangs. As Tom climbs the criminal ladder, he finds himself torn between his ruthless ambition and his loyalty to his family. Ultimately, a cycle of gang warfare and escalating violence threatens to destroy everything he holds dear.

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Timeline & Setting – The Public Enemy (1931)

Explore the full timeline and setting of The Public Enemy (1931). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

Prohibition era, early 20th century

The movie takes place during the Prohibition era, a time when the sale, production, and transportation of alcohol were illegal in the United States. This period saw a rise in organized crime as gangs sought to capitalize on the black market for alcohol, leading to intense rivalries and violence. Socially, this era was marked by significant cultural changes, including the emergence of the flapper lifestyle and the evolving role of women.

Location

Chicago

Chicago serves as the gritty backdrop for 'The Public Enemy,' embodying the chaotic spirit of the Prohibition era. Known for its organized crime and speakeasies, the city is a hub of illicit activities where gangsters negotiate power and territory. Its vibrant nightlife contrasts sharply with the violence and desperation of the characters' lives.

🌆 City 🍻 Prohibition 🎷 Gangster

Last Updated: January 18, 2025 at 14:35

Main Characters – The Public Enemy (1931)

Meet the key characters of The Public Enemy (1931), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Tom Powers (James Cagney)

Tom Powers is a complex character who transitions from a poor youth to a feared gangster. His ruthless pursuit of power leads to a life marked by violence and betrayal, ultimately isolating him from his loved ones. Tom's character arc reflects the seductive nature of crime and its inevitable consequences, revealing the darkness within his ambition.

👊 Gangster 🎖️ Ambition 😡 Ruthlessness

Matt Doyle (Edward Woods)

Matt Doyle serves as Tom's closest ally and embodies the loyalty often present in gangster narratives. Despite his friendship with Tom, Matt's fate becomes a tragic reminder of the costs associated with their criminal lifestyle. His character highlights themes of friendship and sacrifice within the violent world they inhabit.

🤝 Loyalty 💀 Sacrifice 🚨 Violence

Kitty (Joan Blondell)

Kitty is a pivotal female character whose relationship with Tom illustrates the emotional toll of his gangster life. As a girlfriend, she experiences the brunt of Tom's anger and betrayal, ultimately suffering as a victim of his violent choices. Kitty's character brings a sense of humanity to the otherwise brutal narrative.

💔 Heartbreak 🎭 Emotion 👩‍❤️‍👨 Relationships

Last Updated: January 18, 2025 at 14:35

Major Themes – The Public Enemy (1931)

Explore the central themes of The Public Enemy (1931), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

🔫 Crime

The central theme of 'The Public Enemy' revolves around crime and its consequences. It explores the allure of the gangster lifestyle, showcasing how ambition and greed lead to moral decay. Tom Powers' descent into ruthlessness highlights the destructive nature of crime, affecting not only the criminal but also their loved ones.

💔 Betrayal

Betrayal plays a pivotal role in the narrative, manifesting in various relationships, such as Tom's abandonment of Kitty for Gwen. Tom's betrayal of his own brother's values after returning from war underscores the conflict between familial loyalty and the seductive nature of power. This theme ultimately leads to tragic consequences and a cycle of revenge.

⚔️ Revenge

Revenge is a driving force in the film, particularly after the death of Matt, which acts as a catalyst for Tom. His quest for vengeance against rival gangsters underscores the brutal reality of gangster life, where violence begets more violence. Tom's single-minded pursuit reveals both the destructive impact of vengeance and the tragic fate that often accompany such paths.

Last Updated: January 18, 2025 at 14:35

Unlock the Full Story of The Public Enemy

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The Public Enemy Summary

Read a complete plot summary of The Public Enemy, including all key story points, character arcs, and turning points. This in-depth recap is ideal for understanding the narrative structure or reviewing what happened in the movie.

The Public Enemy Summary

The Public Enemy Timeline

Track the full timeline of The Public Enemy with every major event arranged chronologically. Perfect for decoding non-linear storytelling, flashbacks, or parallel narratives with a clear scene-by-scene breakdown.

The Public Enemy Timeline

More About The Public Enemy

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More About The Public Enemy

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