A truly inspired performance from Cagney in an otherwise average film. But, at least when the direction fails, the story is interesting enough to keep things moving, and the score was actually pretty good as well. Be warned though, it's a tearjerker.

Not a very accurate biography, but an entertaining movie and a fine tribute to one of the earliest legends of motion pictures. You might not think Cagney a good choice to play Lon Chaney, but he pulls it off with aplomb

This movie starts a little slow but gains momentum in the second half of the film. James Cagney gives a great performance and is a joy to watch.

Slightly more melodramatic than it needed to be, but still had the moxie to give a warts and all portrayal. Make-up was a rubber mask farce though.

Cags gives his all, in a variety of elaborate disguises, as Chaney. Sturdy. In a flattering bit of casting, handsome "77 Sunset Strip" costar Smith plays Lon junior.

99% fiction, but James Cagney is always awesome.