The Racket (1928)

Nominated for 1 Academy Award:

Best Production

The Caddo Company

It won 0 Oscars out of a total of 1 nomination in 1927-28.


The Racket is a fast-paced crime drama that follows an honest cop as he tries to take down the leader of an organized crime ring during the Prohibition era.  Although there is a slew of corrupt politicians and policemen standing in the way of justice, he catches a lucky break when the brother of the mob boss gets pinched.

This film was one of only three films to be nominated for Best Production, a category that would later serve as the equivalent for “Best Picture.”

We are indeed very fortunate to still have this film.  It was considered to be one of the “lost” Oscar films until a single copy was discovered in a collection of films owned by Howard Hughes after he passed away.  Hughes had actually produced this particular film and the print found in his collection is the only known copy to exist.

It was digitally remastered by the University of Nevada, Las Vegas and Turner Classic Movies, and is occasionally shown on their cable television station.


Editorial:

I am so glad that this movie was found.  It is an absolute gem.  It moves quickly, it is exciting and energetic, and always suspenseful.  Having been digitally remastered, it even looks great.  I highly recommend it.  If you are lucky enough to get your hands on a copy or to catch it on television, make sure you take advantage of the opportunity.  It is a film that almost ceased to exist.

Score  |  06/10  |  This motion picture is worth watching.