Alibi (1931 film)

Alibi is a 1931 American pre-Code crime film directed by Roland West. It stars Chester Morris as a resourceful gangster named Chick Morelli.

Overview

The film is based on the stage play "Nightstick" by Elaine Carrington, J.C. Nugent, Elliott Nugent, and Harry T. Morey, which was itself based on a real-life murder case. Alibi is notable for being one of the earliest sound films in the gangster genre and for being nominated for three Academy Awards: Best Actor (Chester Morris), Best Adapted Screenplay, and Best Sound Recording. It was also one of the first films produced by Feature Productions, an independent production company formed by West and Joe Schenck.

Plot

Chick Morelli, a notorious gangster, is released from prison after serving time for armed robbery. He immediately resumes his criminal activities, leading a gang involved in bootlegging and murder. After a policeman is killed during a robbery, Morelli carefully constructs an alibi, implicating a rival gang. However, he falls in love with Joan Manning, the daughter of a police officer investigating the case. As the police close in and Joan becomes increasingly suspicious, Morelli faces the dilemma of choosing between his criminal life and the possibility of a legitimate relationship. The investigation intensifies, and Morelli's elaborate alibi begins to unravel, putting him at risk of capture and potentially betraying those closest to him.

Cast

• Chester Morris as Chick Morelli
• Mae Clarke as Joan Manning
• Harry Stubbs as Buck
• Purnell Pratt as Sergeant Pete Manning
• Elizabeth Dickinson as Daisy
• Regis Toomey as Danny Malone
• Irving Bacon as Manager

Production

Roland West used innovative camera techniques and sound design for the time, contributing to the film's suspenseful atmosphere. The film was an early example of using sound effectively to build tension and create a sense of realism. It was also one of the few films directed by Roland West to survive.

Reception

Alibi was a critical and commercial success upon its release. Chester Morris's performance as Chick Morelli was particularly praised, earning him an Academy Award nomination. The film's innovative use of sound and its compelling storyline were also noted by critics.

Awards and Nominations

• Academy Awards:
  • Nominated: Best Actor (Chester Morris)
  • Nominated: Best Adapted Screenplay
  • Nominated: Best Sound Recording