They Live by Night

It's permeated with a sweetness and vulnerability unusual for any crime movie. [29 May 1998, p.N]

It’s a précis of the human condition, in other words—beguiling and heartbreaking.

It's a strikingly poetic first feature, more about the naïve romance between young hoodlum Granger and his reluctant nursemaid Cathy O'Donnell than it is about robbing banks and dodging cops.

Ray's assured debut as director is a brilliant noir combination of love story and crime thriller. [24 Dec 2005, p.48]

Nicholas Ray adapted the novel and directed, demonstrating a complete understanding of the characters. It’s a firstrate job of moody storytelling.

Ray’s plaintive artistry lends this weepy noir a melancholic beauty.

They Live by Night has the failing of waxing sentimental over crime, but it manages to generate interest with its crisp dramatic movement and clear-cut types.