The Doorway to Hell

Gritty early Warner mob movie successfully casts Lew Ayres against type as Louie Ricarno, a ruthless Chicago racket czar who’s ready to get out and enjoy a rich retirement, but the rivals who’ve kidnapped his idol-worshipping younger brother (Leon Janney) have other ideas. James Cagney, in his second film, receives a superlative showcase as Steve Mileaway, Ricarno’s treacherous lieutenant; with Dorothy Mathews, Robert Elliott. Archie Mayo directs. 78 min. Standard; Soundtrack: English Dolby Digital mono.