Rumble on the Docks (1956)
Directed by Fred F. Sears / Fred Sears
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Synopsis by Hal Erickson
This tense tale of waterfront corruption was clearly inspired by the success of On the Waterfront; there's even a character named Joe Brindo, played by Michael Granger. Newcomer James Darren plays Jimmy Smigelski, a budding juvenile delinquent who is hired as a "muscle man" for corrupt union leader Brindo. Kicked out of his house by his father, who despises all forms of gangsterism, Smigelski begins regarding Brindo as a surrogate dad. Thus, it takes a lot out of him when Jimmy discovers that his father-figure is a no-good louse. Agreeing to testify before an investigating committee, Jimmy is marked for death by his former benefactor. Once again, producer Sam Katzman uses a timely topic and lurid title to turn a quick profit.
Characteristics
Keywords
control, corruption, criminal, father, fidelity, friendship, gangster, handicap, informer, killing, leader, police, power-struggle, rackets [corruption], riot [uprising], rival, son, street, thug, union [labor union], waterfront