Every James Cagney Movie, Ranked By Fans
Harper Brooks
Over 1K filmgoers have voted on the 60+ films on Every James Cagney Movie, Ranked By Fans. Current Top 3: Yankee Doodle Dandy, Angels with Dirty Faces, The ...
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James Cagney was an acting powerhouse, and the characters he portrayed in his best movies continue to captivate audiences and critics worldwide. With a career spanning more than five decades, he delivered memorable performances in an array of genres. This list delves into the finest films that feature Cagney and highlight his contributions to the world of cinema. Each included film highlights how his talents help elevate it to greatness. We analyze his performances as well as the film's overall quality to determine why these movies deserve a spot among Cagney's best.

For instance, he gives a strong performance as a doomed crook with a conscience in the crime drama Angels with Dirty Faces. Completely different is his portrayal - via song and dance - of Broadway legend George M. Cohan. And in White Heat, he memorably portrays the mentally unstable, ruthless gangster Cody Jarrett. Each picture depends on Cagney to bring depth and complexity to his characters.

Reflecting on the best Cagney movies, it's clear the actor reliably used his unparalleled talents to carve out a legacy in cinematic history. This compilation is a tribute to that legacy, inviting readers to embark on a journey through the timeless and fascinating world of Cagney's films.