Five Star Final

About This Movie

Five Star Final is a gritty look at the darker sides of tabloid journalism in the early 30s. Mervyn LeRoy captures a suffocating atmosphere, pushing the envelope with its themes of exploitation and moral decay. The pacing is relentless; each scene compounds the tension as the newspaper's editor grapples with the consequences of his choices. Edward G. Robinson delivers a standout performance, embodying the desperation and moral conflict of a man caught between ambition and conscience. The film's use of practical effects and stark lighting adds to its raw feel, really drawing you into that era's sensationalist media landscape. It’s not just a crime drama; it’s a commentary on the societal impacts of sensationalism.

Released by First National Pictures. · Shot in black and white with a runtime of 74 minutes. · Based on a play by Louis Weitzenkorn. · Features a notable early performance by Edward G. Robinson.