Gangster Films

<p> The conventions of gangster movies have become well known: the gum-chewing moll the kiss of death incorruptible G-men and well-dressed gangsters toting machine guns. The genre was first popularized in the silent era and has continued with such contemporary releases as <I>Billy Bathgate</I> and <I>Bugsy.</I></p><p> Films actors directors producers cinematographers plot devices themes and more are included in this encyclopedic reference work to gangster films. For people there are biographical sketches that focus on their work in gangster films. The film entries include year of release distributor cast and production credits and a brief synopsis. Terms are placed in context of the genre with relevant examples from gangster films given.</p>