Key Largo
A hurricane swells outside, but it's nothing compared to the storm within the hotel at Key Largo. There, sadistic mobster Johnny Rocco holes up - and holds at gunpoint hotel owner James Temple, his widowed daughter-in-law Nora, and ex-GI Frank McCloud.
Critics Sentiment
Frank uses seamanship and the stolen gun to kill Rocco's gang members
Sheriff Wade kills the innocent Osceola brothers for Deputy Sawyer's murder
The film builds from Frank's initial cowardice to his heroic climax, with the biggest swing occurring when Frank transforms from refusing to fight Rocco to taking decisive action against the gang.
Critics consistently praised Key Largo as a tense, atmospheric thriller that showcases stellar performances, particularly Edward G. Robinson's memorable gangster and Claire Trevor's Oscar-winning turn. While some noted it feels more like a filmed stage play, most reviewers considered this a strength, praising the claustrophobic hotel setting and crackling dialogue. The film builds steadily from atmospheric setup to explosive climax, with critics highlighting both the psychological drama and the satisfying heroic transformation.
Full cast
Humphrey Bogart
Frank McCloud
Edward G. Robinson
Johnny Rocco
Lauren Bacall
Nora Temple
Thomas Gomez
Richard 'Curly' Hoff
Lionel Barrymore
James Temple
Harry Lewis
Edward 'Toots' Bass
Dan Seymour
Angel Garcia
William Haade
Ralph Feeney
Claire Trevor
Gaye Dawn
John Rodney
Deputy Clyde Sawyer
Marc Lawrence
Ziggy
Monte Blue
Sheriff Ben Wade
Rodd Redwing
John Osceola (uncredited)
Jay Silverheels
Tom Osceola (uncredited)
Alberto Morin
Skipper of Rocco's Boat (uncredited)
Pat Flaherty
The Traveler (first Ziggy henchman) (uncredited)
Jerry Jerome
Ziggy's Henchman (uncredited)
John Phillips
Ziggy's Henchman (uncredited)
Beulah Archuletta
Passenger on Bus (uncredited)
John Litel
Dispatcher (uncredited)
Crew
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