The Mayor of 44th Street

The Mayor of 44th Street is a 1942 film directed by Alfred E. Green. It stars George Murphy and Anne Shirley. It was nominated for an Academy Award in 1943.

Plot
George Murphy is a reformed crook who has made a success as a booking agent for big bands at supper clubs. Richard Barthelmess is his ex-partner who is up for parole and needs the promise of a job to get out of prison. George volunteers to help out and offers him a place at his agency.

Before long, Richard has returned to his old ways and is pushing “ protection “ to the bands they represent. When Murphy finds out, he immediately cans the crook.

A spree of violence ensues as the criminal gang ups the ante. Barthelmess turns up the pressure on Murphy and torches his best club. Murphy gets a gun and goes to settle the score but he’s outsmarted. Murphy is being beaten by Barthelmess’ gang when a crowd of ordinary citizens arrive and save the day.

Cast

 * George Murphy as Joe Jonathan
 * Anne Shirley as Jessey Lee
 * William Gargan as Tommy Fallon
 * Richard Barthelmess as Ed Kirby
 * Joan Merrill as Vicky Lane
 * Freddy Martin as himself
 * Rex Downing as Bits McKarg
 * Millard Mitchell as Herman
 * Mary Wickes as Mamie