Bullets for O'Hara (1941)

Bullets for O'Hara Poster

A detective courts a gangster's ex-wife to lure him into a trap.

Film Overview
"Bullets for O'Hara" is an American gangster movie released in 1941, directed by William K. Howard and produced by Bryan Foy. The movie provides a compelling story of a convoluted love triangle, a case of incorrect identity, and a bitter battle against the criminal world. Roger Pryor, Anthony Quinn, and Joan Perry are the protagonists in this Warner Bros production.

Plot
The movie revolves around Tony Van Dyne (Anthony Quinn), a well-known gangster who gets away from prison to look for revenge on his former partner, Mike O'Hara (Roger Pryor). O'Hara, a former gangster, has actually now reformed and works as an engineer. Having successfully distanced himself from his previous criminal life, he falls in love with Patricia Van Dyne (Joan Perry), Tony Van Dyne's sibling living a life unaware of her brother's criminal activities.

The film begins with Patricia ready to marry O'Hara when Tony escapes from jail. Patricia, unaware of Tony's criminal background, assists him hide from the authorities, triggering her to miss her own wedding event. This leads O'Hara to think that Patricia has jilted him, while Patricia thinks O'Hara deserted her at the altar. This misunderstanding develops a rift in between the lovers and sets the stage for a twisted series of occasions.

Incorrect Identity and Revenge
In a twist of fate, O'Hara is mistaken for Tony by the authorities due to an incorrect recognition by Tony's ex-girlfriend, Rita Adams (Joan Winfield). At the same time, Tony formulates a plan to have O'Hara eliminated to precise his vengeance. He sends Diamond, his henchman, to carry out the deed. However, Diamond wrongly kills Rita rather, thinking she is Patricia.

Final Confrontation
The police have actually now closed in on O'Hara under the misconception he is Tony, and Tony desires O'Hara dead to close his revenge loop. The climax of the film is a thrilling confrontation in between Tony, O'Hara, and the police forces. In the heat of the minute, Diamond confesses to Rita's murder, exonerating Patricia and O'Hara from suspicion. In the ensuing fight, Tony is eliminated, and O'Hara is cleared of all charges.

Closure
With Tony's death and O'Hara's name cleared, O'Hara and Patricia are lastly able to reunite and dispose of the web of misconceptions that had actually kept them apart. The film ends on a confident note, hinting at the delighted life waiting for the couple away from the shadow of criminal activity.

General Feel and Reception
"Bullets for O'Hara" is a movie filled with suspense, action, and love. It's a roller-coaster flight of feelings that braids love and criminal activity in a 1940s setting. The film's nonlinear timeline and complex narrative contribute to its remarkable suspense. The efficiencies by Roger Pryor, Anthony Quinn, and Joan Perry are engaging and include depth to their characters. The film, though not a smash hit, received a warm response for its intriguing plot and intense efficiencies.

Top Cast

  • Joan Perry (small)
    Joan Perry
    Pat Van Dyne
  • Roger Pryor (small)
    Roger Pryor
    Mike O'Hara
  • Anthony Quinn (small)
    Anthony Quinn
    Tony Van Dyne / Tony Millard
  • Maris Wrixon (small)
    Maris Wrixon
    Elaine Standish
  • Dick Purcell (small)
    Dick Purcell
    Wicks
  • Richard Ainley (small)
    Richard Ainley
    McKay Standish
  • Hobart Bosworth (small)
    Hobart Bosworth
    Judge
  • William Hopper (small)
    William Hopper
    Richard Palmer
  • Joan Winfield (small)
    Joan Winfield
    Marjorie Palmer
  • Roland Drew (small)
    Roland Drew
    Bradford
  • Joe King (small)
    Joe King
    Maxwell