This film tells the story of Rocky Sullivan (James Cagney) a rough kid from New York City’s infamous, Hell’s Kitchen. Rocky, kid banished to reform school becomes a polished crook while a friend of his growing up; Jerry Connolly (Pat O’Brien) escaped reform school and became a priest. When Rocky must hide from the law, he stays with Jerry at his parish where he discovers that Jerry helps out troubled youths just like they where. Rocky begins to question his lifestyle amidst shoot-outs, car chases and other usual gangster activities. This journey of redemption shows how the complications in our upbringing affect our lives even as adults and how it is possible to can change our ways.