Gangster Squad: More Than Just a Name
The film “Gangster Squad,” at its core, is a Hollywood crime epic deeply rooted in the American mafia narrative. While the name might suggest a simple “cops versus robbers” story, it’s much more profound. It’s about choosing to standing against overwhelming odds and that theme is masterfully captured throughout the whole film.
A Lone Stand for Justice
Detective John O’Mara embodies the age-old saying: “The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing.” This conviction fuels his actions when he witnesses injustice, leading him to take matters into his own hands. However, instead of praise, he finds himself at odds with a system riddled with corruption. His partner warns him against making trouble, and his pregnant wife pleads, “I don’t need a hero, I need a husband.”
O’Mara’s unwavering resolve catches the attention of Police Chief Parker, who sees him as the key to taking down the ruthless mob boss Mickey Cohen. Parker offers O’Mara a secret mission: wage a guerrilla war against Cohen and dismantle his criminal empire. Despite reservations from his wife, Connie, who fears for his safety, O’Mara accepts the challenge, driven by his unshakeable belief in justice.
Assembling the Untouchables
The task of dismantling Cohen’s empire is daunting. O’Mara needs a team, and he starts with Jerry Wooters. Despite his somewhat cynical outlook, Jerry is a war veteran with a strong moral compass. His charm also leads him to fall for Grace Faraday, Cohen’s etiquette tutor. While initially hesitant, Jerry is ultimately swayed by O’Mara’s impassioned plea and joins the squad.
Next comes Lieutenant Coleman Harris, “the Sheriff of Central Avenue,” a man known for his rebellious nature and shared interests with O’Mara. Connie also plays a crucial role in recruitment, recommending Max Kennard, a sharpshooter with an impressive track record. Kennard’s recruitment brings in his partner, Navidad Ramirez which adds another layer of depth to the team’s dynamics. And lastly is Conwell Keeler, a former intelligence officer. Each member brings unique skills and a shared determination to fight against the corrupting influence of Mickey Cohen.
Facing the Inferno
The Gangster Squad faces immense danger at every turn. Cohen is a ruthless adversary who uses extreme violence to maintain control, and many law enforcement and judicial figures are in his pocket, including the highest judge of Los Angeles named Carter, who is the poker buddy of Cohen. The squad operates in secrecy, facing potential consequences without recognition or support.
The squad’s initial raid on Cohen’s casino in Burbank ends in failure, leading to the arrest of O’Mara and Coleman. They would soon be rescued and regroup to attack using a new approach.
Retaliation and Resilience
Cohen retaliates with fury. He orchestrates violent attacks and targets anyone who opposes him. A shoeshine boy becomes an innocent casualty when Jerry is getting his shoes shined. This loss fuels Jerry’s rage and strengthens his resolve to bring Cohen down. The squad faces not only Cohen’s wrath but also internal challenges, forcing them to adapt and learn from their mistakes constantly. Planting the listening device into Cohen’s home is a turning point of the film. After the success conduct by Conwell and Jerry, the squad now can hear all the dirty secrets of Cohen.
The Final Showdown
O’Mara and his team find out that “Gold Coast” is a crucial financial asset, and they must work out what it is. Eventually, the clever Conwell finds that it is a luxurious hotel with shrewd measures.
As the squad closes in, Cohen becomes increasingly desperate and dangerous. He places and trap against the task force, luckily Conwell arrives in time as O’Mara approaches the car disguised as a drug transport. The headquarters is soon exposed after that, and Conwell is eventually strangled to death by assassins sent by Cohen, and O’Mara’s wife even needs to give birth in a bathtub as there is a drive-shooting out side of the house.
The team’s resolve is tested to its limits. After this incident, Grace is willing to be a witness in court and the final showdown is now beginning. . A final, bloody confrontation at the Park Plaza Hotel ensues, with the Gangster Squad battling Cohen’s forces in a desperate fight for justice. O’Mara finally confronts Cohen, ending the gangster’s reign of terror.
A Legacy of Moral
“Gangster Squad” is based on real events and figures from the American mafia’s heyday. The film’s story conveys the importance and the spirit of fighting against evil.
The film is a stark reminder that individuals must uphold justice and peace to prevent the rise of evil forces. This principle ensures a society where the citizens truly thrive. Every member of society has a different opinion toward these moral choices, but we can stick to our inner ideal and make our own choice.