Little Caesar

Definition

Little Caesar is a 1931 American pre-Code gangster film directed by Mervyn LeRoy, which follows the rise and fall of a small-time hoodlum named Caesar Enrico Bandello, played by Edward G. Robinson. The film is significant as it is one of the earliest examples of the gangster genre, showcasing the impact of organized crime on American society during the Prohibition era and highlighting themes of ambition, betrayal, and the consequences of a life of crime.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Little Caesar was one of the first films to depict the gritty realities of organized crime, influencing future gangster films with its raw portrayal of ambition and violence.
2. Edward G. Robinson's performance as Caesar Enrico Bandello was groundbreaking and helped establish him as a major star in Hollywood.
3. The film's success at the box office led to a surge in popularity for gangster films during the early 1930s, marking a significant shift in American cinema.
4. The narrative structure of Little Caesar follows a classic rise-and-fall storyline, showcasing how Bandello's ruthless ambition ultimately leads to his downfall.
5. Little Caesar is notable for its cultural impact on the portrayal of gangsters in popular media, shaping public perceptions of organized crime that continue to resonate in contemporary films.

Review Questions

• How does Little Caesar exemplify the characteristics of the gangster film genre?
  • Little Caesar exemplifies the gangster film genre through its focus on a protagonist who is deeply involved in organized crime and portrays themes such as ambition and betrayal. The film presents a gritty view of the criminal underworld and highlights the moral complexities faced by its characters. By showcasing the rise and inevitable fall of Caesar Enrico Bandello, it encapsulates the archetypal narrative found in many gangster films that followed.
• In what ways did Little Caesar reflect the societal issues of its time, particularly regarding Prohibition?
  • Little Caesar reflects the societal issues of its time by addressing the impact of Prohibition on American life, as it illustrates how this ban on alcohol fostered an environment ripe for organized crime. The film depicts characters who capitalize on illegal activities such as bootlegging and gambling, which became rampant during this era. By showcasing these criminal enterprises, Little Caesar provides commentary on how Prohibition influenced not only individual lives but also broader social dynamics in America.
• Evaluate the lasting impact of Little Caesar on future cinematic portrayals of crime and antiheroes.
  • The lasting impact of Little Caesar on future cinematic portrayals of crime and antiheroes is profound, as it laid the groundwork for subsequent films in the gangster genre and beyond. Its depiction of a morally ambiguous protagonist who experiences a tragic downfall resonated with audiences and inspired filmmakers to explore similar themes in their works. Additionally, Little Caesar's raw realism and focus on psychological complexity influenced later genres like film noir, shaping how crime stories are told in cinema today.

Related terms

Gangster Film: A genre of film that revolves around organized crime and the lives of criminals, often portraying their struggles for power and influence.

Prohibition: The period from 1920 to 1933 in the United States when the manufacture, sale, and transportation of alcoholic beverages were banned, leading to the rise of illegal speakeasies and organized crime.

Film Noir: A cinematic style that emerged in the 1940s characterized by its use of low-key lighting, moral ambiguity, and complex antiheroes, often drawing inspiration from earlier gangster films like Little Caesar.