A 1930s boxer punches his way up, then ego-punches himself down. Classic hubris, vintage gloves.
A young fighter, Bill Hickey, achieves success through the help and support of his friends and, once he does, he gets a big case of 'swellhead.' And then he loses his friends, loses his girl-friend, loses his confidence and is all set-up to lose his title.
Acting
James Gleason's fast-talking corner man Johnny Trump.
Production
Authentic 1930 boxing ring atmosphere, pre-Code edge.
Director
James Flood
Trivia, insights & behind the scenes
Director James Flood specialized in forgotten sports pictures; this was one of six boxing films he made in the early sound era.
The term 'swellhead' was 1920s slang for arrogance from success—this film helped popularize it into common usage.
US
