LET'S GET TOUGH!

Cinemavixion Review

Wallace Fox's "Let's Get Tough!" from 1942 offers a surprisingly complex narrative beneath its pulpy title. Set against the backdrop of World War II, the film follows Muggs, Danny, and their gang as they grapple with patriotism and prejudice. Initially eager to enlist, their youthful exuberance turns to misguided anger when they target an Asian shopkeeper, only to discover he was Chinese. This poignant realization sparks a desire for atonement, leading them to uncover a genuine spy ring. The film deftly intertwines this espionage plot with personal drama, particularly Danny's distress over his brother's naval discharge, adding layers of emotional depth. While not a critical darling, "Let's Get Tough!" provides a compelling snapshot of wartime anxieties and adolescent moral development, anchored by a solid performance from its lead cast including Leo Gorcey, Bobby Jordan, and Huntz Hall.