The Shakedown

Jimmy Morrell and Norma Nelson are deeply in love and plan to marry as soon as their neighborhood pharmacy starts making a profit. They've been holding on to their dream, eagerly waiting for the right opportunity to begin their life together.

Former bootlegger Dutch Barnes approaches Jimmy with a lucrative job opportunity. He suggests that Jimmy duplicate name brand toothpaste and cosmetics to sell at lower prices, promising a financial reward that could help him marry Norma.

When Dutch requests that Jimmy copy the formula for a popular antiseptic, Jimmy initially refuses. He believes he cannot procure a key ingredient necessary for the formula, sticking to his principles despite the financial pressure.

Dutch offers Jimmy a substantial bonus that is large enough to fulfill his dream of marrying Norma. Faced with the prospect of his future, Jimmy reluctantly agrees to the shady deal, setting off a chain of alarming events.

Lily Duran, Dutch's ex-girlfriend, grows envious of his affection for another woman. In a fit of jealousy, she alerts the antiseptic company about the fraudulent activities, which leads to dire consequences.

In a desperate attempt to silence Lily and protect his operations, Dutch murders her. This heinous act adds a layer of danger to the already precarious situation for Jimmy.

With Lily murdered and unable to testify, the antiseptic company is forced to drop its lawsuit against Jimmy. This unexpected turn of events leaves Jimmy temporarily free but deeply entangled with Dutch's illicit schemes.

Now under Dutch's control, Jimmy is compelled to manufacture fake digitalis, a dangerous drug. His moral dilemmas intensify as he recognizes the potential ramifications of his actions.

During childbirth, Norma is administered some of the fake digitalis produced by Jimmy. The consequences are devastating, resulting in her losing the baby, adding emotional turmoil to their relationship.

Devastated and enraged by the tragedy that befell Norma, Jimmy seeks vengeance against Dutch. His desperation drives him to confront the man who manipulated him and brought ruin to his life.

Sheffner, the original formulator of the antiseptic that Jimmy had been replicating, learns of Dutch's actions and confronts him. This encounter leads to Sheffner shooting Dutch, turning the tide of events.

After the violent confrontation, Jimmy confesses all of his involvement and the truth about Dutch to the district attorney. This moment of honesty is pivotal in reclaiming his life and moral integrity.

Following his confession, the district attorney exonerates Jimmy, clearing him of all charges. This newfound freedom opens the door for Jimmy and Norma to rebuild their lives.

With their burdens lifted, Jimmy and Norma can finally look forward to a brighter future together. They reconcile their differences and work towards the dream they initially shared.