Key Largo Synopsis & Review: Plot Summary

🎯 Quick Overview

😅 Plot Summary – Badly Explained

A war vet visits a hotel run by a wheelchair-bound dude and his daughter-in-law, only to find a gangster using it as a hideout during a hurricane, leading to a showdown more intense than the weather, mostly filmed in one room.

🍿 Key Largo: Detailed Plot Synopsis

Arrival at Key Largo

Frank McCloud, a war veteran, arrives at a hotel in Key Largo, Florida, owned by James Temple and his widowed daughter-in-law, Nora. He intends to honor the memory of George Temple, a soldier who served under him and died in the war. The hotel is closed for the season, and Frank quickly realizes something is amiss.

Hostage Situation

The hotel is occupied by a group of gangsters led by Johnny Rocco, a deported mobster awaiting a rendezvous. A tense atmosphere develops as the gangsters reveal their true nature, holding Frank and the Temples hostage. Tensions rise further as a hurricane approaches, trapping everyone together.

Confrontation and Betrayal

During the height of the storm, the true characters of the individuals are revealed. Frank struggles with his disillusionment and reluctance to act. Rocco displays his brutality and paranoia, while Gaye Dawn, Rocco’s moll, grapples with her own demons. The local sheriff, investigating a murder, adds to the pressure cooker environment.

⚠️ Spoilers and Ending Explained

🎬 Cast & Characters

• Frank McCloud (Humphrey Bogart): A disillusioned war veteran who initially resists violence but ultimately confronts the gangster Johnny Rocco, finding a renewed sense of purpose.
• Johnny Rocco (Edward G. Robinson): A ruthless and arrogant gangster who takes over the hotel and embodies the corrupt forces of the past.
• Nora Temple (Lauren Bacall): The resilient widow of Frank’s war buddy, managing the hotel with her father-in-law while grappling with grief and the encroaching danger.
• James Temple (Lionel Barrymore): The wheelchair-bound owner of the hotel and father of Frank’s deceased friend, who passionately despises Rocco and everything he represents.
• Gaye Dawn (Claire Trevor): Johnny Rocco’s alcoholic and downtrodden moll, who seeks escape from her situation and ultimately aids Frank.

💬 Memorable Quotes

• Frank McCloud: “One Rocco more or less isn’t worth dying for.” – Frank explains his reluctance to confront Rocco, highlighting his post-war disillusionment.
• Frank McCloud: “You don’t like it, do you Rocco, the storm? Show it your gun, why don’t you? If it doesn’t stop, shoot it.” – Frank taunts Rocco about his fear of the hurricane, exposing the gangster’s inner cowardice.
• Johnny Rocco: “What do you want me to do, dance?” – Rocco’s sarcastic response when Temple confronts him, showcasing his arrogance and disregard.
• Gaye Dawn: “Yeah, good luck.” – Gaye’s cynical farewell to Frank as he departs with Rocco, hinting at her understanding of the danger he faces.

💰Box Office

• Budget: $1,030,000
• Domestic Gross: $7,017,420
• Worldwide Gross: $9,524,420

💥 Key Largo Reviews

Personal Review

I absolutely loved Key Largo! The suspense was so thick you could cut it with a knife, especially during the hurricane scenes. Edward G. Robinson was chillingly good as Johnny Rocco, and Humphrey Bogart’s cool demeanor kept me hooked. The ending, with Nora opening the shutters to sunshine, was perfect. The scene with Claire Trevor singing for a drink? Heartbreaking. I felt every bit of the tension.

• Who would enjoy:
  • “Fans of classic film noir”
  • “Humphrey Bogart and Lauren Bacall enthusiasts”
  • “Viewers interested in crime dramas with suspenseful plots”
  • “Those who appreciate strong character-driven stories”
• Content warnings ⚠:
  • “Violence”
  • “Gun violence”
  • “Strong language”
  • “Alcohol abuse”
  • “Thematic elements of post-war disillusionment”

Professional Reviews

• The Film Stage: “Key Largo is a classic crime drama featuring stellar performances from Bogart, Robinson, and Bacall. Huston’s direction creates a claustrophobic atmosphere, amplified by the intense hurricane, making it a gripping watch. The film is a must-see for noir enthusiasts.
• Slash Film: “Edward G. Robinson steals the show as the menacing Johnny Rocco. The film’s confined setting and looming hurricane amplify the tension, making it a classic ensemble piece. Key Largo’s exploration of post-war disillusionment and redemption adds depth to its thrilling narrative.
• IMDb: “Key Largo is a taut, character-driven film that blends crime and noir elements effectively. Bogart’s restrained performance is a perfect counterpoint to Robinson’s flamboyant gangster. The hurricane adds a layer of suspense, making it a memorable entry in both actors’ filmographies.

Audience Reactions

Robinson’s portrayal of Johnny Rocco is absolutely unforgettable.: Viewers praise the film’s intense atmosphere and the strong performances of the entire cast.

The interplay between Bogart and Robinson creates a palpable tension that keeps you on the edge of your seat.: Many appreciate the film’s blend of crime and noir, making it a standout in both genres.

Overall Consensus: Key Largo is a highly regarded crime noir classic, praised for its strong performances, intense atmosphere, and compelling storyline.

Awards

1. Academy Award (Best Supporting Actress)- 1949
2. Golden Globe (Best Supporting Actress)- 1949

🛠️ Behind the Scenes

• “John Huston kept Claire Trevor in the dark about when she would film her singing scene. This ensured her performance would be genuinely nervous and uncomfortable, perfectly fitting her character’s state.”
• “The boat used in the final sequence was Humphrey Bogart’s personal boat, the Santana.”

🖥️ How to Watch Key Largo?

Key Largo is available for purchase or rent on various platforms, including Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, and Vudu. Check local listings for potential broadcast options. While not typically available on subscription-based streaming services, keep an eye on rotation schedules for platforms like HBO Max or Criterion Channel.

🎥 Similar Movies

If you enjoyed Key Largo, you might like these similar films:

• The Petrified Forest (1936): Similar plot of disillusioned intellectual held hostage by gangsters in a remote location, examining themes of societal decay.
• The Desperate Hours (1955): A family held hostage in their own home by escaped convicts, creating intense claustrophobia.
• To Have and Have Not (1944): Features Bogart and Bacall in another film set in the Caribbean with similar themes of reluctant heroism and moral ambiguity.
• Assault on Precinct 13 (1976): A police station under siege by a relentless gang, with a small group forced to defend themselves.
• Green Room (2015): A punk band trapped in a venue by a group of violent white supremacists, creating a modern tense thriller.

🛒 Key Largo Related Products

• Humphrey Bogart: The Essential Collection (Casablanca / The Maltese Falcon / Key Largo / The Treasure of the Sierra Madre): A comprehensive collection featuring Bogart’s iconic films, offering hours of classic entertainment and showcasing his legendary performances.
• Key Largo – Movie Poster (Unframed): A high-quality reprint of the original movie poster, perfect for adding a touch of classic Hollywood to any room.
• Edward G. Robinson: A Biography: Explore the life and career of Edward G. Robinson, one of cinema’s most iconic tough guys.
• Warner Bros. 100 Years of Storytelling: Key Largo Limited Edition Blu-Ray Steelbook: Digitally remastered and packaged in a stylish steelbook, this limited edition version enhances your viewing experience and is a must-have for collectors.

🎧 Soundtrack

Key Largo features a captivating soundtrack that enhances the movie’s atmosphere and emotional impact. Here are some notable tracks:

• “Moanin’ Low” – performed by Ralph Rainger & Howard Dietz (performed by Claire Trevor)

You can find the complete soundtrack on Amazon Music and Apple Music.

🤨 FAQ

🔥 Bonus Content

Hurricanes in the Movies: Hurricane scene from film “Key Largo”

Ever wondered about the symbolism of the hurricane in ‘Key Largo’? This video breaks down a pivotal scene and offers some great context. Trust me, it’ll make you appreciate the movie even more!

Top 10 Humphrey Bogart Movies

Think you know all of Bogart’s best movies? This video ranks his top 10, and ‘Key Largo’ makes the list! See where it lands and decide if you agree with their pick.

CLASSIC MOVIE REVIEW: Humphrey Bogart & Edward G. Robinson in film noir’s KEY LARGO from STEVE HAYES

Looking for a thoughtful review of ‘Key Largo’? Steve Hayes breaks down what makes this film noir a classic, and his passion for the movie is infectious. You might discover something new!

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