This page presents an annotated, worldwide bibliography of reviews, articles and other published material related to the 1927 film The City Gone Wild (link to LBS filmography page). This film featured Louise Brooks in the role of Snuggles Joy, a moll. Under its American title, documented screenings of the film took place in Australia, Canada, China, Dutch Guiana (Surinam), England, Ireland, Isle of Man, New Zealand, South Africa, and Sweden. The film was occasionally shown in the United States and once in Scotland under the title A City Gone Wild. The film was also advertised under the title The City Gone Mad in Argentina. Elsewhere, this motion picture was known to have been shown under other-language titles including La ciudad del mal (Argentina); Der Verbrecherkönig von Chicago (Austria); La cité maudite (Belgium); A cidade bulicosa (Brazil); Mesto uplynulý divoký (Czechoslovakia); Storstadens svøbe! (Denmark); Het Kwaad eener Wereldstad (Dutch East Indies); La cité maudite (France); La Ville Maudite (France); 狂乱街 (Japan); Die Gottin der Sunde (Latvia); La onda del crimen (Mexico); Boeven en Burgers (The Netherlands); Het Kwaad Eener Wereldstad (The Netherlands); Piraci Wielkiego Miasta (Poland); A Cidade Ruidosa (Portugal); and La ciudad lel mal (Spain).
As research is ongoing, this page is a work in progress. It is understood that any given citation comes from an American source, unless otherwise noted. The intention of this bibliography is to be both comprehensive and useful. Most citations represent a substantial review or article. Capsule reviews, or significant shorter pieces — usually a paragraph or two in length — are so noted. Entries are arranged chronologically. Critical commentary regarding Brooks, or the film as a whole (excerpted from the material cited) is given as annotations. Some citations link to the material noted: some of these links reside on the Louise Brooks Society, while others reside elsewhere on the web.
Much can be gleamed from a bibliography such as this. Besides what critics thought of the film, one can follow the path of the film’s distribution — where it showed and when; sometimes, for example, the exhibition record might reveal if the film was shown before its official release date. As well, this bibliography shows which critics at which newspapers and magazines reviewed films. History, here, is in the details.
An * indicates that a copy of this citation is held in the archives of the LBS. This annotated bibliography has been compiled by Thomas Gladysz, and was last updated in October 2015. [Help wanted: If you know of additional citations, can provide further information on entries noted on this page, or can provide copies of citations not marked with an * but which are known to exist, please contact the LBS. The LBS would like to acquire material on the screening of this film in Latin America, eastern Europe, the Soviet Union, and Asia.]
THE CITY GONE WILD
released November 12, 1927
Busby, Marquis. “Denny Will Leave Universal.” Los Angeles Times, July 1, 1927. *
— short write-up in film column in Los Angeles, California newspaper
anonymous. “The City Gone Wild.” Photoplay, October, 1927. *
— capsule review with picture; “Louise Brooks and Fred Kohler are a terrifically fine pair of screen crooks”
anonymous. “Underworld Drama on Georgia Screen.” Atlanta Constitution, November 6, 1927. *
— article in Atlanta, Georgia newspaper
anonymous. “City Gone Wild, at Granada is a Tale of Bootleggers and Gangsters in ‘Mid-West City’.” San Francisco Examiner, November 6, 1927. *
— “Louise Brooks is the ‘moll,’ whose knowledge of the inner works makes her an important cog in the plot.” – San Francisco, California newspaper
Crosby, Edward Harold. “Under the Spotlight.” Boston Post, November 6, 1927. *
— write-up in arts column in Boston, Massachusetts newspaper
Pollack, Leona. “The New Movies.” Omaha World Herald, November 6, 1927. *
— “Louise Brooks, the pert flapper, completely shadows the more important role allotted to Marietta Millner, and the ‘girl of Gunner Gallagher’ brief as her part is, is a far more intriguing character than the society girl of Miss Millner.” – review in Omaha, Nebraska newspaper
anonymous. “City Gone Wild at Metropolitan.” Boston Globe, November 7, 1927. *
— article in Boston, Massachusetts newspaper
anonymous. “Gone Wild at Met.” Boston Post, November 7, 1927. *
— article in Boston, Massachusetts newspaper
anonymous. “Melodrama is Granada’s Fare.” San Francisco Call and Post, November 7, 1927. *
— “Meighan has a good supporting cast, including Louise Brooks and Marietta Millner.” – San Francisco, California newspaper
anonymous. “As We See the Movies.” The Tech, November 7, 1927. *
— review in student newspaper at Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Gillaspey, A. F. “Gangster Story at Granada.” San Francisco Bulletin, November 7, 1927. *
— “At the same time James Cruze, the director, has caught the spirit of the theme and has brought to the screen a thrilling story visualizing some of the events that formed headlines in all newspapers of the country some months back.” – San Francisco, California newspaper
Hillman, Gordon. “Meighan in Crook Film at the Metropolitan.” Boston Daily Advertiser, November 7, 1927. *
— “Another distinct ornament of the cast is Louise Brooks, who lends considerable vividness to her portrait of a lady of the underworld. In fact, she gives so good an interpretation of the part that Marietta Millner, supposedly the feminine lead, actually relapses into only secondary importance.” – review in Boston, Massachusetts newspaper
J., L.D. “At the Strand.” Des Moines Register, November 7, 1927. *
— “Fred Kohler as chief gunman, and Louise Brooks as ‘woman,’ give excellent performances.” – review in Des Moines, Iowa newspaper
Swint, Curran D. “Imperial, Granada Have Excellent Programs.” San Francisco News, November 7, 1927. *
— “Besides Meighan the cast includes Marietta Millner, Louise Brooks, Fred Kohler, Duke Martin, Nancy Phillips, Wyndham Standing and others. James Cruze directed.” – San Francisco, California newspaper
Waite, Edgar. “Granada Shows Crime Drama.” San Francisco Examiner, November 7, 1927. *
— ” . . . a picture that will please a very large section of the movie clientele.” – San Francisco, California newspaper
Warren, George C. “Granada Screens Vivid Story of Chicago Vice.” San Francisco Chronicle, November 7, 1927. *
— “Louise Brooks is exactly placed as his tough sweetheart. She is a brassy, hard little beauty and fits this type absolutely.” – San Francisco, California newspaper
anonymous. “Fighting the Crooks.” Helena Independent, November 9, 1927. *
— short article in Helena, Montana newspaper
Hughston, Josephine. “Thomas Meighan Star of Picture at California.” San Jose Mercury Herald, November 9, 1927. *
— “Louise Brooks, as Gallagher’s girl, walks away with the feminine laurels.” – San Jose, California newspaper
anonymous. “Broadway Offers City Gone Wild.” Tacoma Times, November 11, 1927. *
— brief article in Tacoma, Washington newspaper
anonymous. “Tom Meighan Back Monday in New Paramount.” Bangor Daily Commercial, November 12, 1927. *
— article in Bangor, Maine newspaper
anonymous. “Stage – Music – Photoplay.” Detroit Saturday Night, November 12, 1927. *
— short write-up in weekly Detroit, Michigan entertainment newspaper
anonymous. “Meighan Film is Punchy.” Tacoma News Tribune, November 12, 1927. *
— article in Tacoma, Washington newspaper
anonymous. “At the Jayhawk.” Topeka Daily State Journal, November 12, 1927. *
— brief article in Topeka, Kansas newspaper
anonymous. “Pictures Playing Atlanta This Week.” Weekly Film Review, November 12, 1927. *
— capsule review; “Good characterizations by players.” – Atlanta, Georgia trade journal
anonymous. “Thomas Meighan Stars in Underworld Drama.” Gazette Telegraph, November 13, 1927. *
— brief article in Colorado Springs, Colorado newspaper
anonymous. “Knickerbocker Picture Stars Thomas Meighan.” Nashville Banner, November 13, 1927. *
— article in Nashville, Tennessee newspaper
anonymous. “Meighan Has Greatest Role in The City Gone Wild at Knickerbocker.” Nashville Tennessean, November 13, 1927. *
— article in Nashville, Tennessee newspaper
anonymous. “Meighan Plays in Crook Drama.” San Antonio Light, November 13, 1927. *
— article in San Antonio, Texas newspaper
anonymous. “City Gone Wild Stirring Film.” Santa Barbara Morning Press, November 13, 1927. *
— “Louise Brooks is excellent as the gunman’s sweetheart.” – article in Santa Barbara, California newspaper
anonymous. “City Gone Wild Looks Like Tom Meighan’s Best.” Bangor Daily Commercial, November 14, 1927. *
— “Marietta Millner and Louise Brooks are featured.” – review in Bangor, Maine newspaper
anonymous. “City Gone Wild at the Opera House.” Bangor Daily News, November 14, 1927. *
— “Marietta Millner and Louise Brooks are featured.” – review in Bangor, Maine newspaper
anonymous. “At The Theaters.” Providence Evening Bulletin, November 14, 1927. *
— review in Providence, Rhode Island newspaper
anonymous. “At The Theaters.” Providence Journal, November 14, 1927. *
— “Featured with Mr. Meighan are Marietta Millner, Louise Brooks and Fred Kohler.” – review in Providence, Rhode Island newspaper
anonymous. “Princess – The City Gone Wild.” San Antonio Express, November 14, 1927. *
— “Although Meighan is featured in the cast, he has his co-stars, Louise Brooks, one of Paramount’s niftiest, and Fred Kohler, remembered for his great crook work in Rough Riders and Underworld.” – review in San Antonio, Texas newspaper
anonymous. “At the Odeon.” Savanah Press, November 14, 1927. *
— review in Savannah, Georgia newspaper
anonymous “At the Jayhawk.” Topeka Daily State Journal, November 14, 1927. *
— review in Topeka, Kansas newspaper
Feldkamp, Frances V. “Movie Reviews.” St. Louis Globe-Democrat, November 14, 1927. *
— “No matter how unlovely are the things done by Kohler and Miss Brooks, they at least are real; real people in real life.” – review in St. Louis, Missouri newspaper
Harris, Genevieve. “Thomas Meighan in a Story of Gangsters.” Chicago Evening Post, December 14, 1927. *
— “Louise Brooks as the gangster’s ‘girl’ gives a great performance.” – review in Chicago, Illinois newspaper
Heffernan, Harold. “The New Movies in Review.” Detroit News, November 14, 1927. *
— review in Detroit, Michigan newspaper
Marsh, W. Ward. “City Gone Wild. State.” Cleveland Plain Dealer, November 14, 1927. *
— ” . . . pitting her against crookdom’s love of Louise Brooks brings out the worst in all of us. On the credit side is Miss Brooks and also Fred Kohler in a role paralleling his Mulligan in Underworld. They do excellent work.” – review in Cleveland, Ohio newspaper
McCormick, Ella H. “Reel Players.” Detroit Free Press, November 14, 1927. *
— review in Detroit, Michigan newspaper
Nie. “The Week’s New Films.” St. Louis Post-Dispatch, November 14, 1927. *
— “Louise Brooks, a narrow broad who hangs out below the dead line . . . .” – St. Louis, Missouri newspaper
Richardson, Charles J. “City Gone Wild Is Hectic Melodrama at Michigan.” Detroit Times, November 14, 1927. *
— “Kohler does some superb work as a gangster and he is aided by Louise Brooks, whose star continues in the ascendant.” – review in Detroit, Michigan newspaper
Small, Charles. “State.” Cleveland Press, November 14, 1927. *
— brief review in Cleveland, Ohio newspaper
anonymous. “Characters of Underworld in Meighan Film.” San Mateo Times, November 15, 1927. *
— article in San Mateo, California newspaper
anonymous. “At the Theaters.” Asheville Times, November 18, 1927. *
— brief notice in Asheville, North Carolina newspaper
anonymous. “Take-a-Chance At Metropolitan.” Daily Bruin, November 18, 1927. *
— article in UCLA student newspaper
Starr, Jimmy. “Can’t Lose Week at Metropolitan.” Los Angeles Record, November 18, 1927. *
— “Pretty L.B. makes a charming lady of rather doubtful companions.” – review in Los Angeles, California newspaper
anonymous. “Public Has Chance to Take Risks.” Los Angeles Examiner, November 19, 1927. *
— article in Los Angeles, California newspaper
Scheuer, Philip K. “Surprise Program Won’t Disappoint.” Los Angeles Times, November 19, 1927. *
— article in Los Angeles, California newspaper
anonymous. “Met Offers Mystery for Showgoers.” Los Angeles Examiner, November 20, 1927. *
— article in Los Angeles, California newspaper
anonymous. “Thrilling Play On At Senator.” Sacramento Union, November 20, 1927. *
— “The City Gone Wild stands out as the leading melodrama of the year.” – Sacramento, California newspaper
Adams, Carl B. “Photoplay Reviews.” Cincinnati Enquirer, November 21, 1927. *
— review in Cincinnati, Ohio newspaper
anonymous. “Meighan in New Role In Picture at State.” Dayton Journal, November 21, 1927. *
— review in Dayton, Ohio newspaper
anonymous. “At the Theaters.” Green Bay Press Gazette, November 21, 1927. *
— short article in Green Bay, Wisconsin newspaper
Aston, Frank. “Walnut.” Cincinnati Post, November 21, 1927. *
— “Louise Brooks looking naughty as a criminal.” – review in Cincinnati, Ohio newspaper
C., E. S. “Underworld Story Thrills on T. & D. Bill.” Oakland Tribune, November 21, 1927. *
— “Louise Brooks enacts well the role of his ‘Moll’.” – Oakland, California newspaper
T., R. C. “Comedy Star of Broadway Tops Coronado Show.” Rockford Register-Gazette, November 21, 1927. *
— review in Rockford, Illinois newspaper
W., D. “City is Wild Under Terror Rule, T & D.” Oakland Post Enquirer, November 21, 1927. *
— review; “Louise Brooks fits nicely into the part of his hard-boiled, double-crossing sweetie.” – review in Oakland, California newspaper
anonymous. “Tom Meighan’s Latest.” Philadelphia Inquirer, November 22, 1927. *
— “Louise Brooks as Snuggles Joy is a winner in her crook role.” – review in Philadelphia, Pennslyvannia newspaper
anonymous. “City Gone Wild at Karlton.” Philadelphia Public Ledger, November 22, 1927. *
— “Louise Brooks captures the female honors for her excellent work at Snuggles Joy.” – review in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania newspaper
anonymous. “Meighan Has Come Back in His New Production.” Philadelphia Record, November 22, 1927. *
— review in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania newspaper
anonymous. “The City Gone Wild.” Appleton Post-Cresent, November 25, 1927. *
— article in Appleton, Wisconsin newspaper
anonymous. “The City Gone Wild at Rivoli Theatre.” Patterson News, November 25, 1927. *
— review in Patterson, New Jersey newspaper
anonymous. “Thomas Meighan’s City Gone Wild Vivid, Good.” Appleton Post-Cresent, November 26, 1927. *
— review in Appleton, Wisconsin newspaper
anonymous. “City Gone Wild Stars Tom Meighan At Capitol Tonight.” Hartford Courant, November 27, 1927. *
— article in Hartford, Conneticut newspaper
anonymous. “Thomas Meighan in City Gone Wild.” Hartford Daily Times, November 26, 1927. *
— article in Hartford, Connecticut newspaper
anonymous. “Underworld Story Is Screened at Kirby.” Houston Chronicle, November 27, 1927. *
— “Louise Brooks has an important part as Fred Kohler’s gangster gal’.” – article in Houston, Texas newspaper
anonymous. “Underworld Tale Showing Now at Rosemary Theater.” Santa Monica Evening Outlook, November 27, 1927. *
— article in Santa Monica, California newspaper
anonymous. “Capitol.” Hartford Courant, November 28, 1927. *
— “Louise Brooks is excellent as the gunman’s sweetheart. Her’s was a difficult role as the hard boiled underworld girl, but she did well in it.” – review in Hartford, Conneticut newspaper
anonymous. “Story of Underworld Is Screened at Kirby.” Houston Chronicle, November 28, 1927. *
— review in Houston, Texas newspaper
anonymous. “Reviewing the New Shows.” Houston Post-Dispatch, November 28, 1927. *
— review in Houston, Texas newspaper
anonymous. “This Week on the Screen.” Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, November 28, 1927. *
— article in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania newspaper
Star-News Critic. “Tom Meighan Again in Prosecutor Role.” Pasadena Star-News, November 28, 1927. *
— review in Pasadena, California newspaper
anonymous. “Thomas Meighan is Star at Regent.” Riverside Daily Press, November 28, 1927. *
— article in Riverside, California newspaper
anonymous. “City Gone Wild, Orchestra and Nora Kelly are Features.” Berkeley Daily Gazette, November 29, 1927. *
— “Louise Brooks is excellent as the gunman’s sweetheart. Hers was a difficult role, but she did well in it.” – Berkeley, California newspaper
anonymous. “Tom Meighan, Alexander.” Glendale Daily Press, November 29, 1927. *
— article in Glendale, California newspaper
anonymous. “Tom Meighan Star at Palace.” Newark Star-Eagle, November 29, 1927. *
— review in Newark, New Jersey newspaper
anonymous. “Rivoli.” Patterson Morning Call, November 29, 1927. *
— review in Patterson, New Jersey newspaper
anonymous. “At the Theaters Last Night.” Pittsburgh Press, November 29, 1927. *
— capsule review in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania newspaper
anonymous. “Campus Film Characterized by Spontaneity; Comedy Presented at U.C., Melodrama at California.” Daily Californian, November 30, 1927. *
— brief review; University of California, Berkeley student newspaper
anonymous. “Crook Drama Is Now Being Shown at Rosemary.” Venice Evening Vanguard, November 30, 1927. *
— article in Venice, California newspaper
anonymous. “Picadilly.” Rochester Times-Union, December 3, 1927. *
— article in Rochester, New York newspaper
anonymous. “What Press Agents Say About Coming Events.” Toronto Star, December 3, 1927. (Canada) *
— “Louise Brooks plays a flapper bandit of rare appeal.” – brief article in Toronto, Canada newspaper
anonymous. “Louise Brooks with Meighan in New Film.” Davenport Democrat And Leader, December 4, 1927. *
— article in Davenport, Iowa newspaper
anonymous. “Meighan Has Biggest Crook Vehicle.” Knoxville Journal, December 4, 1927. *
— article in Knoxville, Tennessee newspaper
anonymous. “The American Venus to Play at Majestic Here.” Tulsa Daily World, December 4, 1927. *
— article in Tulsa, Oklahoma newspaper
anonymous. “The City Gone Wild Story of Social Parasite.” Tulsa Tribune, December 4, 1927. *
— article in Tulsa, Oklahoma newspaper
anonymous. “Meighan and Cruze a Winning Team in The City Gone Wild.” Wheeling Register, December 4, 1927. *
— article in Wheeling, West Virgina newspaper
anonymous. “Thomas Meighan in The City Gone Wild.” Wichita Beacon, December 4, 1927. *
— full page illustrated article; Wichita, Kansas newspaper
anonymous. “Coming Attractions.” The Globe, December 5, 1927. (Canada) *
— brief article in Toronto, Ontario newspaper
anonymous. “Meighan’s New Picture Is Stirring Melodrama.” Grand Rapids Press, December 5, 1927. *
— review in Grand Rapids, Michigan newspaper
anonymous. “Tom Meighan in New Film.” Santa Monica Evening Outlook, December 5, 1927. *
— article in Santa Monica, California newspaper
anonymous. “The City Gone Wild is New Entertainment at Rex.” Wheeling Register, December 5, 1927. *
— “Louise Brooks has an important part as Fred Kohler’s ‘gangster girl’.” – review in Wheeling, West Virgina newspaper
anonymous. “Meighan at Strand.” Birmingham Age-Herald, December 6, 1927. *
— article in Birmingham, Alabama newspaper
anonymous. “Billie Dove on Screen at Victoria.” Rochester Evening Journal & Post Express, December 6, 1927, 1923. *
— capsule review in Rochester, New York newspaper
Cannon, Regina. “City Gone Wild Has Tom Meighan as Celluloid Hero.” New York American, December 6, 1927. *
— “Louise Brooks gives an interesting characterization of a girl who is more crooked than the Hudson River. She is Gallagher’s pal and maintains the hardboiled attitude a woman of the underworld probably would have toward life. Louise is by far the most fascinating member of the cast of this picture.” – New York City newspaper
H., P. “Thomas Meighan’s City Gone Wild Fine Crook Film.” Knoxville Journal, December 6, 1927. *
— review in Knoxville, Tennessee newspaper
M., K. C. “City Gone Wild Has Action If Little Else.” Knoxville News-Sentinel, December 6, 1927. *
— review in Knoxville, Tennessee newspaper
Hall, Mourdant. “A Picture of Gangsters.” New York Times, December 6, 1927. *
— “. . . . and Louise Brooks as his sweetheart, give suitable performances, but that is about all.” – New York City newspaper
Martin, Quinn. “The New Film.” The World, December 6, 1927. *
— “Louise Brooks, that decorative and electric brunette, acts the part of the sweetheart of the chief gangster – acts the part terribly. If Miss Brooks doesn’t improve pretty soon she may have my permission to change her birthplace to Joplin.” – New York City newspaper
Marzoni, Pettersen. “Picture Reviews.” Birmingham Age, December 6, 1927. *
— “Fred Kohler and Louise Brookes are excellent as a gunman and his girl, who are responsible for much of the vivid action.” – short review Birmingham, Alabama newspaper
Mason, Lawrence. “Much Music and Mirth.” Globe and Mail, December 6, 1927. (Canada) *
— short review in Toronto, Ontario newspaper
Underhill, Harriette. “On the Screen.” New York Herald Tribune, December 6, 1927. *
— “The handsome Louise Brooks is excellent as the vengeful sweetheart of a gunman.” – New York City newspaper
anonymous. “On the Screen.” Democrat & Chronicle, December 7, 1927. *
— review in Rochester, New York newspaper
anonymous. “Shadows & Footlights.” Tulsa Tribune, December 7, 1927. *
— “Louise Brooks, as the light o’ love of one of the gunman does some of the best work of her career.” – review in Tulsa, Oklahoma newspaper
anonymous. “The City Gone Wild.” Variety, December 7, 1927. *
— “Not a picture to be played up, but its action should carry it through.”
Cohen Jr., John S. “The New Photoplays.” New York Sun, December 7, 1927. *
— “Louise Brooks, Fred Kohler (last seen to high advantage in Underworld) and Marietta Millner play sincerely and well.” – New York City newspaper
McE., J. “City Gone Wild a Near Underworld.” Daily Mirror, December 7, 1927. *
— ” . . . the supporting cast, headed by Fred Kohler and Louise Brooks, put the picture over.” – New York City newspaper
Pelswick, Rose. “2 Crook Pictures and War Film on Week’s Cinema Menu.” New York Evening Journal, December 7, 1927. *
— “Louise Brooks is attractive as the gangster’s girlfriend.” – New York City newspaper
Thirer, Irene. “City Gone Wild, Meighan’s Underworld Film, Wild Stuff.” Daily News, December 7, 1927. *
— “Louise Brooks is her cute, wiry little self as Snuggles, the gunner’s girl friend.” – New York City newspaper
Thompson, Donald. “Professor Meighan Gives an Illustrated Lecture.” New York Telegram, December 7, 1927. *
— “Louise Brooks and Marietta Millner are cast as the feminine lures, and do well enough at it.” – New York City newspaper
Harris, Radie. “City Gone Wild Underworld Meller.” Morning Telegraph, December 8, 1927. *
— “Louise Brooks is in the cast and that is something to grow ecstatic about. Christened with the preposterous name of Snuggles Joy, she is the most entrancing crook that ever pulled a Holt. No wonder the city went wild.” – New York City newspaper
anonymous. “Attractions at Garden Theater.” Charleston Evening Post, December 10, 1927. *
— article in Charleston, South Carolina newspaper
anonymous. “The City Gone Wild.” Moving Picture World, December 10, 1927. *
— review in trade publication; “He is well supported by Miss Millner, and to lesser extent by Louise Brooks.”
anonymous. “Gang Warfare is Theme of Story.” Charlotte News, December 11, 1927. *
— article in Charlotte, North Carolina newspaper
anonymous. “Thomas Meighan at America in City Gone Wild, Latest Film.” Denver Post, December 11, 1927. *
— article in Denver, Colorado newspaper
Tinee, Mae. “Meighan Comes Back with Old-Time Wallop.” Chicago Tribune, December 11, 1927. *
— review in Chicago, Illinois newspaper
anonymous. “Thomas Meighan Heads Capitol Bill.” Springfield Republican, December 12, 1927. *
— short article in Springfield, Massachusetts newspaper
H., S.M. “The New Photoplay Bills.” Toledo Blade, December 12, 1927. *
— brief review in Toledo, Ohio newspaper
Harrison, P. S. “The City Gone Wild – with Thomas Meighan.” Harrison’s Reports, December 17, 1927. *
— short review in trade publication; “Not much of entertainment, for the reason that the hero is presented as an able laywer, but a man that wastes his talent in defending crooks and saving murderers from the electric chair.”
anonymous. “Thomas Meighan in The City Gone Wild.” Film Daily, December 18, 1927. *
— capsule review; ” . . . Louise Brooks his nifty looking sweetie.”
anonymous. “New Pictures.” Time, December 19, 1927. *
— capsule review; “The City Gone Wild becomes, suddenly and unfortunately, in the midst of a great crackle of bullets and bad words, a cinema gone mild.”
King, Don. “Views and Reviews.” Film Mercury, December 23, 1927. (United States)
— “Thomas Meighan is just as colorless as usual; Louise Brooks makes an ordinary heroine and the rest of the cast struggle through their roles as well as possible.” – review in film trade journal
Service, T.O. “Service Talks.” Exhibitor’s Herald, December 24, 1927. *
— commentary on the film in trade journal
anonymous. “Louise Brooks Back In Gangster Picture.” Santa Rosa Press Democrat, December 25, 1927. *
— article in Santa Rosa, California newspaper
B., V. J. “The Screen.” Indianapolis Star, December 26, 1927. *
— review in Indianapolis, Indiana newspaper
O., H.H. “Stage and Screen.” Ann Arbor Times News, December 26, 1927. *
— “Marietta Milner who will be remembered as the leading lady of We’re All Gamblers, again appears in the principal feminine role, although perky Louise Brooks as ‘Snuggles Joy,’ the sweetheart of the leading crook character in the picture, easily walks away with feminine honors.” – review in Ann Arbor, Michigan newspaper
L., J.M. “Picture at Bijou Proves Interesting.” Richmond Times-Dispatch, December 27, 1927. *
— “Thomas Meighan, Marietta Milner and Louise Brooks have the principal roles. . . . Miss Brooks walks away with all honors among the women members of the cast. She is all that is required of the vengeful ‘Gallegher’s Girl’.” – review in Richmond, Virginia newspaper
anonymous. “City Gone Wild Shows Gangsters.” Santa Rosa Press Democrat, December 28, 1927. *
— article in Santa Rosa, California newspaper
anonymous. “Machine Gun Battle In City Gone Wild.” Salinas Index Journal, December 30, 1927. *
— article in Salinas, California newspaper
anonymous. “New Picture Opens at Uptown Theater.” Utica Observer-Dispatch, January 4, 1928. *
— brief article in Utica, New York newspaper
anonymous. “Stage and Screen.” Utica Daily News, January 5, 1928. *
— brief article in Utica, New York newspaper
anonymous. “Meighan Picture Is Fine Film.” Hamilton Daily News, January 6, 1928. *
— article in Hamilton, Ohio newspaper
anonymous. “Ecos y noticias ” La Vanguardia, January 7, 1928. (Spain) *
— article in Barcelona newspaper
anonymous. “Movies.” Minneapolis Tribune, January 9, 1928. *
— capsule review in Minneapolis, Minnesota newspaper
Taaffe, Agnes. “Theatres.” Minneapolis Daily Star, January 9, 1928. *
— brief review in Minneapolis, Minnesota newspaper
anonymous. “At the Napier.” Drumheller Mail, January 12, 1928. (Canada) *
— article in Drumheller, Alberta newspaper
anonymous. “Tom Meighan Has Congenial Role in Rialto’s Film of Underworld.” Washington Herald, January 23, 1928. *
— review Washington D.C. newspaper
anonymous. “Opening Attractions in Washington Theaters.” Washington Star, January 23, 1928. *
— review in Washington D.C. newspaper
B., N. B. “Offerings at the Local Theaters.” Washington Post, January 23, 1928. *
— (author is Nelson B. Bell); “Fred Kohler, Louise Brooks, Wyndham Standing and Mr. ‘Gunboat’ Smith are the members of the cast who do most to lend this subject a sharply authentic note.” – Washington D.C. newspaper
G., E. A. “Tom Meighan Goes in for Crook Stuff.” Washington Times, January 23, 1928. *
— review in Washington D.C. newspaper
Patton, Peggy. “Underworld Film at Alhambra.” Wisconsin News, January 23, 1928. *
— review in Milwaukee, Wisconsin newspaper
anonymous. “Rivoli Film Shows Machine Gun Battle.” Berkeley Daily Gazette, January 26, 1928. *
— article on local, second run of the film; – Berkeley, California newspaper
anonymous. “At the Theaters.” Sheboygan Press, January 30, 1928. *
— article in Sheboygan, Wisconsin newspaper
anonymous. “La Ciudad del Mal.” Mensajero Paramount, February 1928. *
— four page illustrated article in Spanish-language Paramount house organ
anonymous. “Tivoli.” Richmond Palladium and Sun-Telelgram, February 2, 1928. *
— “Marietta Millner and Louise Brooks are featured in Meighan’s support.” – review in Richmond, Indiana newspaper
anonymous. “Gang Warfare Is Shown In Picture Opening At Strand.” Lansing Capital News, February 6, 1928. *
— “Louise Brooks, a little thinner than usual, but her own piquant self just the same, takes second honors to Meighan. She takes the part of the gunman’s girl, and a cold-blooded tough she is.” – review in Lansing, Michigan newspaper
anonymous. “At the Albee.” Brooklyn Daily Eagle, February 7, 1928. *
— ” . . . steller photoplay attraction.” – capsule review in New York City newspaper
anonymous. “Strand.” Lansing State Journal, February 7, 1928. *
— review in Lansing, Michigan newspaper
anonymous. “The City Gone Wild.” The Bioscope, February 9, 1928. (England) *
— capsule review; “As a drama of the underworld, a theme so often embarked upon, this is one of the best and should prove a welcome acquisition to almost any programme.”
Collier, Lionel. &”The City Gone Wild.” Kinematograph Weekly, February 9, 1928. (England) *
— capsule review; “Marietta Millner fulfils the latter role moderately well, a better rendering of an easier part of vamp being given with some distinction by Louise Brooks.”
anonymous. “City Gone Wild, Cruze Production, Showing at Post.” Battle Creek Enquirer and Evening News, February 19, 1928. *
— article in Battle Creek, Michigan newspaper
anonymous. “New Ben Hecht Big City Crook Drama Coming.” Honolulu Star-Bulletin, February 25, 1928. *
— article in Honolulu, Territory of Hawaii newspaper
anonymous. “The City Gone Wild Is Film of Civic Corruption; Opens at Hawaii Theater.” Honolulu Advertiser, February 26, 1928. *
— Brooks is mentioned in article in Honolulu, Territory of Hawaii newspaper
D., P. G. “More Crime and Shooting at Hawaii.” Honolulu Star-Bulletin, February 27, 1928. *
— review in Honolulu, Territory of Hawaii newspaper
Orndorff, Marguerite. “The City Gone Wild.” Educational Screen, March 1928. *
— “Thomas Meighan continues to slide down the scale of interest and popularity. Even the direction of James Cruze can’t save this production from worse than mediocrity. The quarrels of underworld gangs, and the rivalry of two lawyer friends over the girl they both love, constitute the story. It’s improbable, haltingly put together, and very dull.” – capsule review in trade journal
anonymous. “Opinions on Pictures.” Motion Picture News, March 3, 1928. *
— “There is some good acting in the cast.” – review in trade journal
Paget, F. Ely. “A Real Underworld.” Film Spectator, March 3, 1928. *
— letter to the editor compares the films Underworld and The City Gone Wild
Potter, Merle. “Lyric.” Minneapolis Journal, March 6, 1928. *
— capsule review in Minneapolis, Minnesota newspaper
anonymous. “Thomas Meighan Y James Cruze en Una Obra Maestra.” Excelsior, March 10, 1928. (Mexico) *
— article in Mexico City newspaper
L., L. de. “Cronicas Cinematograficas.” Excelsior, March 14, 1928. (Mexico) *
— review in Mexico City newspaper
anonymous. “City Gone Wild Thrilling Story of Gangster Warfare.” The Munday Times, March 15, 1928. *
— article in Munday, Texas newspaper
anonymous. “Thomas Meighan Granada’s Star.” Reno Gazette, March 17, 1928. *
— brief article in Reno, Nevada newspaper
Marks, Bill. “After Six in Warren.” Warren Tribune, March 22, 1928. *
— review in Warren, Pennsylvania newspaper
anonymous. “At the Theaters.” Frederick Post, March 23, 1928. *
— capsule article in Frederick, Maryland newspaper
anonymous. “Movies.” Warren Morning Mirror, March 23, 1928. *
— article in Warren, Pennsylvania newspaper
anonymous. “Double Programme – Regent.” Manitoba Free Press, March 25, 1928. (Canada) *
— capsule article in Winnipeg, Manitoba newspaper
anonymous. “Modern Crook Drama Lively at Broadway.” Oregon Daily Journal, March 31, 1928. *
— “Louise Brooks as Kohler’s moll does fine work.” – review in Portland, Oregon newspaper
Orne, Stanley. “Broadway’s Excellent Bill Certain to Prove Popular.” Portland Oregonian, March 31, 1928. *
— “Louise Brooks, who plays the crook’s girl, is better looking, more attractive and a better actress than Marietta Millner, the district attorney’s jeune fille, an in real life Tommy probably would have preferred her to Marietta.” – Portland, Oregon newspaper
anonymous. “Majestic Features Meighan in Underworld Story Today.” Mansfield News, April 1, 1928. *
— article in Mansfield, Ohio newspaper
anonymous. “Majestic Picture to Show Through Wednesday.” Mansfield News, April 3, 1928. *
— “Louise Brooks is excellent as the gunman’s sweetheart. Hers was a difficult role as the hardboiled underworld girl, but she did well in it.” – review in Mansfield, Ohio newspaper
H., P. “The Screen.” Dallas Morning News, April 4, 1928. *
— review in Dallas, Texas newspaper
Cherrington, H. E. “City Goes Wild and Meighan Tames it at Majestic.” Columbus Dispatch, April 16, 1928. *
— review in Columbus, Ohio newspaper
F., J. B. “Underworld.” Columbus Citizen, April 16, 1928. *
— review in Columbus, Ohio newspaper
W., B. A. “Majestic.” Ohio State Journal, April 16, 1928. *
— “Tough Fred Kohler and Brunette Beauty Louise Brooks are part of it, a whole lot of it.” – review in Columbus, Ohio newspaper
anonymous. “The City Gone Wild Stars Thomas Meighan.” Daily Tribune, April 24, 1928. *
— brief article in Royal Oak, Michigan newspaper
anonymous. “At the Movies.” Bismarck Tribune, May 17, 1928 *
— article in Bismark, North Dakota newspaper
anonymous. “The City Gone Wild’ At The Central 2 Days.” Hartford Courant, August 12, 1928. *
— article in Hartford, Connecticut newspaper
anonymous. “Effective Setting at the Capitol Theater.” Irish Times, September 25, 1928. (Ireland) *
— passing mention in Dublin, newspaper
anonymous. La Prensa, September 27, 1928. (Argentina) *
— captioned scene still in Buenos Aires, Argentina newspaper
anonymous. “Programa de espectaculos.” El Imparcial, October 2, 1928. (Spain) *
— brief write-up in Madrid newspaper
anonymous. “Amusements.” Calgary Daily Herald, October 6, 1928. (Canada) *
— brief article in Calgary, Alberta newspaper
anonymous. “Music and Drama.” Manchester Guardian, October 27, 1928. (England) *
— brief mention in article in Manchester newspaper
anonymous. “The Grand.” Cape Times, June 14, 1929. (Union of South Africa) *
— brief article in Cape Town newspaper
anonymous. “Screen Life.” Fairbanks Daily News-Miner, January 18, 1930. *
— write-up in Fairbanks, Alaska newspaper
anonymous. “Screen Life.” Fairbanks Daily News-Miner, January 20, 1930. *
— write-up in Fairbanks, Alaska newspaper
anonymous. “An Underworld Story.” Irish Independent, January 31, 1931. (Ireland) *
— “In the later days of the silent films a young artist who showed considerable promise was Louise Brooks.” – brief article in Dublin newspaper
Hardy, Phil. The BFI Companion to Crime. London: Cassell, 1997. *
— includes an entry by Jack Lodge on the film; “Encouraged by the success of Underworld, Paramount made this vigorous Chicago gangland melodrama, paving the way for the famous 1930’s films of organized crime. Meighan is the criminal lawyer, forever getting his clients acquitted on a technicality; Standing is his opponent, the District Attorney. But Meighan and Standing are friends out of court, and love the same girl (Milner). Standing is killed when he discovers the identity of ‘the man upstairs,’ who is Milner’s father. Meighan abandons his practice and becomes the D.A. who saves Milner from disgrace when a slighted gun-moll (none other than Brooks) reveals all. The film appears lost. It was praised at the time for its authentic sets and details, and for the novelty of the plot. One touch that Variety’s reviewer enjoyed was that each of the two main hoodlums (Kohler and Martin) was accompanied by a girl carrying a loaded gun in her handbag. Kohler’s girl was Brooks, playing the deliciously titled ‘Snuggles Joy’.”
McCarty, John. Bullets over Hollywood: The American Gangster Picture from the Silents to The Sopranos. New York: Da Capo Press, 2004. *
— includes about a page on the film