Ed. G. Robinson gives an excellent character study of the scheming Rico, and an effective cast also includes Douglas Fairbanks, Jun., Stanley Fields, Ralph Ince, Glenda Faxrell, and Sidney Blackmer.

LeRoy's coldly efficient direction-due less to his own artistry than to the constraints of sound recording in its first years-imposes a static rigor on the action and lends the actor's diction and gestures a sculptural, granitic force.

No director could ask for more than Edward G. Robinson's contribution. Here, no matter what he has to say, he's entirely convincing.

Edward G. Robinson’s sensational performance in his star-making role has never lost any of its power.