Is The Criminal Code Worth Watching?
Answer: Yes, The Criminal Code is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Crime movies.
It features a runtime of 97 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to mature audiences.
The Criminal Code Review
Last updated: January 18, 2026
Detailed Premise & Narrative Foundations
Released in the dynamic cinematic landscape of 1931, The Criminal Code emerges as a significant entry in the Crime, Drama domain. The narrative core of the film focuses on a sophisticated exploration of After young Robert Graham commits a murder while drunk and defending his girlfriend, he is prosecuted by ambitious Mark Brady and sentenced to 10 years. Unlike standard genre fare, The Criminal Code attempts to deconstruct traditional tropes, offering a conventional take on its central themes.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Crime is often anchored by its ensemble, and The Criminal Code features a noteworthy lineup led by Walter Huston . Supported by the likes of Phillips Holmes and Constance Cummings , the performances bring a palpable realism to the scripted words.
Performance Analysis: While the cast delivers competent and professional performances, they are occasionally hampered by a script that leans into familiar archetypes.
Final Verdict: Is it Worth Watching?
In summary, our editorial assessment of The Criminal Code (1931) is mixed. With an audience rating of 6.0/10, it stands as a highly recommended experience for genre enthusiasts.
The Criminal Code Plot Summary & Detailed Storyline
Quick Plot Summary: The Criminal Code is a Crime, Drama film that delves into the criminal underworld with gritty realism and moral complexity. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict and narrative structure.
The Criminal Code Ending Explained & Final Analysis
Ending Breakdown: The Criminal Code concludes its story with a mix of closure and open interpretation. The finale presents its approach to crime resolution.
The emotional climax centers on character transformation, offering viewers material for post-viewing discussion.
Ending Analysis:
- Narrative Resolution: The story concludes by addressing its primary narrative threads, providing closure while maintaining some ambiguity.
- Character Arcs: Character journeys reach their narrative endpoints, reflecting the film's thematic priorities.
- Thematic Payoff: The ending reinforces the crime themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of The Criminal Code reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
The Criminal Code Real vs. Reel: Is it Based on a True Story?
The Criminal Code incorporates elements from real criminal cases. As a crime, drama film, it navigates the space between factual accuracy and narrative engagement.
Historical Context
The film takes creative liberties to enhance dramatic impact. Core events maintain connection to source material while adapting for theatrical presentation.
Creative interpretation shapes the final narrative, focusing on emotional truth over strict chronology.
Accuracy Assessment: The Criminal Code adapts its source material for dramatic purposes. The film prioritizes thematic resonance over documentary precision.
Who Should Watch The Criminal Code?
Worth Watching If You:
- Enjoy Crime films and don't mind familiar tropes
- Are a fan of the cast or director
- Want solid genre entertainment
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Full Cast & Crew of The Criminal Code
- Walter Huston – Mark Brady
- Phillips Holmes – Robert Graham
- Constance Cummings – Mary Brady
- Boris Karloff – Ned Galloway
- DeWitt Jennings – Yard Captain Gleason
Top Highlights
Walter HustonMark Brady
Phillips HolmesRobert Graham
Constance CummingsMary Brady
Boris KarloffNed Galloway
DeWitt JenningsYard Captain Gleason
Mary DoranGertrude Williams
Ethel WalesKatie Ryan
Clark MarshallRunch
Arthur HoytLeonard Nettleford
John St. PolisDr. Rinewulf
Where to Watch The Criminal Code Online?
Streaming Hub📺 Stream on
Criterion ChannelParents Guide & Age Rating
The Criminal Code has not been officially rated yet. Based on its genres (Crime, Drama), it contains mature themes, violence.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 6/10, and global collection metrics, The Criminal Code stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 1931 cinematic year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Criminal Code movie hit or flop?
The Criminal Code has received mixed reviews with a 6/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.
Is The Criminal Code worth watching?
The Criminal Code is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Crime, Drama movies, but read reviews first.
Where can I watch The Criminal Code online?
The Criminal Code is currently available for streaming on Criterion Channel. You can also check for it on platforms like Criterion Channel depending on your region.
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Critic Reviews for The Criminal Code
Philips Holmes is really good in this Howard Hawks story of a twenty year old who accidentally kills a man in a silly brawl. The DA - "Mark Brady" (Walter Huston) realises quickly that he could have claimed self-defence for the young man, but the ensuing prosecution ends in conviction and a ten year stretch. Spool on six years and "Brady" is now the warden of the prison and seeing the damage internment has done to the young man, he gives him a job as his personal assistant. That relationship is seriously tested, however, when an inmate is murdered and both men must choose their best path to truth and redemption. This is rarely seen, nowadays, but is a well written and constructed prison story with the despair of the younger man writ large - you simply can't help but empathise with him. Huston and Boris Karloff ("Galloway") also find their feet with strong, sparing, dialogue that builds the tension without cluttering it up. It does take a little while to get going, but is well worth the effort.
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