"A James Cagney love scene is one where he lets the other guy live"

This quote by Bob Hope is an amusing method of explaining the acting style of James Cagney. Cagney was a popular actor in the 1930s and 1940s, understood for his functions in gangster films. In these films, Cagney often played a tough, no-nonsense character who was not scared to utilize violence to get what he wanted. However, Bob Hope's quote indicates that Cagney was not constantly so callous in his acting. In a "James Cagney love scene," Cagney would reveal mercy to his romantic partner, permitting them to live. This recommends that Cagney can representing a softer, more caring side to his characters, even when playing a ruffian. In this way, Bob Hope's quote is an amusing method of applauding Cagney's acting range and flexibility.