1941 would prove to be the breakthrough year for Jon Huston and Humphrey Bogart, with High Sierra their first collaboration which was quickly followed by the ground breaking The Maltese Falcon.  

Bogart stars as Roy Earl, a notorious bank robber who - due to the political influence from his boss Big Mac (Donald McBride) – is granted a pardon from prison in order to do one last job, leading an inexperienced crew in the robbery of a hotel located in a wealthy resort town in California.   

To claim that High Sierra is a movie of its time is an understatement. The film contains an offensive portrayal of African Americans in Willie Best’s lazy, bug eyed, “Yes, sir” spouting cabin hand (might as well have him do a jig while he is up there); women are portrayed as quivering dames who beg their tough men lovers to hit them if they become a nuisance; and -true to form in films released during this period- Adolph Deutsch has composed an over the top score which ruins the mood established in key scenes.

Yet despite its flaws, High Sierra to be a very good film due to its engrossing story, the conflicted nature of its characters, and the impeccable performances by Humphrey Bogart, Ida Lupino, and Joan Leslie.

Special mention should be given to the films romance sub-plots which are an intriguing watch, especially between Bogart’s Roy and Joan Leslie’s Velma, a virtuous young lady who Roy wants to marry and begin a crime free family life. In order to win her heart, Roy funs an operation to have her club foot repaired. Yet although forever thankful she does not return his love, and so Roy turns to Lupino’s Marie, a streetwise dame who is vying for Roy’s affections.

Bogart’s scenes with both actresses unveiled a sensitive side to the actor who was usually delegated thug roles, and in turn Bogart would not only give one of his better performances but would also set himself on a course to be cast in films such as Casablanca and The Treasure of the Sierra Madre.

A film best viewed within its historical context, and recommended for fans of 1940’s crime pictures.