QUESTION

Enemy (1931)
Director
William Wellman
Theme
Corruption of the American Dream
Public Enemy deserves its’ reputation as a classic and a landmark film. The year of its’ release saw the world in the deep midst of the Depression and it still resonates with audiences today, even if it was a product of its’ time.
The film focused almost entirely of the making of a gangster. It brought audience sympathy and a along with it a moral question by depicting Tom and Matt’s growth into enemies of society as one that was not only economic but social in nature.
Prompt
In a two page paper discuss why this film fits into the gangster genre and give at least three examples. Then examine if the film’s depiction of the protagonist, Tom Powers, creates sympathy for him. Describe an instance from the film that reinforces your point.
https://evolated.monster/movies/play/the-public-enemy-1931?mid=17&sid=&sec=3498b486ae6bdb8e62f01d9bb62e66a7bdff6dd6&t=1669029938

SOLUTION

Struggling with where to start this assignment? Follow this guide to tackle your assignment easily!

✅ Step-by-Step Guide to Writing Your Paper on The Public Enemy (1931)

Step 1: Introduction (1 Paragraph)

Start by introducing the film, the director (William Wellman), and its historical context—released in 1931 during the Great Depression.

Include:

A brief sentence on the film’s reputation as a classic
Mention its genre: the gangster film
A thesis statement: The Public Enemy is a quintessential gangster film that explores crime, ambition, and societal decay through the rise and fall of Tom Powers.

Step 2: Explain Why It Fits the Gangster Genre (2–3 Paragraphs)

Give at least 3 examples with brief explanations.

Example 1: Rise through Crime

Like many gangster films, Tom’s journey begins in poverty and rises through illegal means, primarily bootlegging during Prohibition. His transformation into a feared criminal is a classic trope of the genre.

Example 2: Violence and Power

The film showcases brutal violence, a hallmark of the genre. Tom’s use of intimidation and murder to rise through the ranks aligns with gangster archetypes. For example, the infamous scene where Tom shoves a grapefruit in his girlfriend’s face demonstrates both his aggression and control.

Example 3: Inevitable Downfall

The gangster genre often ends with the protagonist’s demise as a moral consequence. Tom’s death is both violent and inevitable, reinforcing the message that crime ultimately leads to destruction.

Step 3: Examine Sympathy Toward Tom Powers (1–2 Paragraphs)

Discuss whether the film creates sympathy for Tom despite his actions.

Points to consider:

His troubled upbringing and environment
Lack of strong moral guidance
His close relationship with his friend Matt
Desire for approval from his family

Example Instance:

One sympathetic moment is when Tom attempts to reconcile with his family and show affection toward his mother. Despite his violent lifestyle, the scene where he brings her gifts and tries to act “normal” shows his internal conflict and desire for connection.

Step 4: Conclusion (1 Paragraph)

Wrap up your analysis.