James Cagney's birthday
Published July 17, 2004
Born July 17, 1899, James Cagney would be 105 years old today. He made the baddest gangster in screen history. His pre-code role as Tom Powers in the 1931 film The Public Enemy was the very foundation of the genre. Everyone remembers the infamous grapefruit scene, but watch the death of Putty Nose a few times. That's the malice in full effect.
Then of course there was his immortal role as the murderous and afflicted mama's boy Cody Jarrett in the 1949 film White Heat. Crazy, physically afflicted with wrackingly painful seizures, his Ma shot, and betrayed by everyone.
For having been one of the top ten or so biggest stars in Hollywood history, he seems to be less well known today than he should be. For one thing, hardly any of his movies are on DVD for some reason. About his only big hit available on DVD is the popular patriotic perennial but frankly less than iconic Yankee Doodle Dandy. It does show off his hoofing, though.
"Tell me that you love me, only say it real low."
I'm particularly proud to have a three foot high copy of this poster on the living room wall, courtesy of Annie Oakley, mother of my godson. Thanks. Top of the world, Ma!
The Public Enemy, Angels With Dirty Faces, and White Heat are such total classics that you really must have them, even if means buying danged videotape.
- James Cagney's birthday
- Published: July 17, 2004
- Type:
- Section: Video
- Filed Under: Video: Classics, Video: Crime, Video: Drama, Video: Urban
- Writer: Al Barger
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Comments on this articleComments
James Cagney was the most versatile actor of his time / generation. He was truly an American Original. Good point as far as not alot of his films on DVD. The last I heard was it had to do with his estate. I know that Angles, Roaring 20's, White Heat and Public Enemy were just released as part of a box set. Wel worth the money
James Cagney could do it all! If you've ONLY seen Public Enemy, or just his gangster films, you haven't really seen all of Jimmy! While he is a magnificent bad guy, he began his career hoofing in vaudeville. He is such an amazing dancer! Watch Yankee Doodle Dandy! He got an oscar for his "turn" in that one! He's also utterly charming and dances brilliantly in another musical, "Something to Sing About." His ultra dramatic work in "White Heat" or "Love Me Or Leave Me" could have been played by no other. PLEASE visit your favorite specialty movie rental store or go onto ebay and look for some of these movie gems! It's hard to believe he was born in 1899! To me he is timeless and we're all so very lucky he made so many wonderful films. With some care, (restoration if need be), and luck, James Cagney will continue to entertain millions for years to come! Love you always, Mr. Cagney, and thank's so very much for the memories! Cheryl
Miss Cheryl- Thank you for that heartfelt little tribute.
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I met Mr Cagney in 1983 at his home in Verney Farms NY. I presented him with artwork which was the center of our afternoon. the story of that day and the artwork can both be found on my site...jimboartmusic.com