BOYS OF THE CITY

Cinemavixion Review

Joseph H. Lewis's "Boys of the City" from 1940, a product of Monogram Pictures, plunges audiences into a surprisingly engaging murder mystery set against the backdrop of a summer camp. The narrative, featuring Bobby Jordan as Danny and Leo Gorcey as Muggs, centers on the gang's efforts to clear Muggs' name when a judge is found dead under suspicious circumstances. Lewis, known for his later noir masterpieces, crafts a briskly paced B-movie that, despite its budgetary constraints, effectively builds suspense. The young cast delivers energetic performances, navigating the comedic elements inherent in their characters while confronting a genuine crime. The film's plot, involving a judge with a troubled past and a remote mountain lodge, offers a compelling, if straightforward, whodunit that remains a testament to the era's efficient storytelling.