A Lion Is in the Streets

Synopsis

A Lion Is in the Streets is a 1953 drama film starring James Cagney as Hank Martin, a charismatic and ambitious drifter who rises from a small-town agitator to a powerful political influencer in the American South. Hank’s fiery oratory skills and determined spirit rally working-class citizens against corrupt landowners and unscrupulous politicians. Navigating love, betrayal, and social upheaval, the movie explores themes of power, ambition, and the complexities of fighting for justice in a turbulent environment. The story unfolds with intense personal and public conflicts, painting a vivid portrait of a man whose lion-like roar challenges the established order.

Cast

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  James Cagney

  Hank Martin

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  Barbara Hale

  Verity Wade

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  Anne Francis

  Flamingo McManamee

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  Warner Anderson

  Jules Bolduc

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  John McIntire

  Jeb Brown

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  Jeanne Cagney

  Jennie Brown

Reviews

Critics have given A Lion Is in the Streets a mixed to moderately positive reception over the years. With an IMDb rating of 6.1 out of 10, many viewers appreciate James Cagney’s compelling performance, noting his energy and charisma as the highlight of the film. On Rotten Tomatoes, the movie holds a 67% approval rating, indicating generally favorable reviews. Positive critiques often highlight the film’s strong social commentary and Cagney’s dynamic portrayal of a passionate, if flawed, protagonist. However, some reviews point out that the pacing feels uneven, and the narrative sometimes struggles under the weight of its political themes. Metacritic’s score of 66 out of 100 aligns with this perspective, reflecting a balance between appreciation for the film’s ambitions and criticism for its execution. Variety praised Cagney’s magnetic presence, while The New York Times noted the film’s earnestness but described it as heavy-handed in delivery. Overall, A Lion Is in the Streets is regarded as a solid, if imperfect, 1950s drama that offers an engaging look at social and political unrest.