SOMEBODY UP THERE LIKES ME (1956)

 

This biography of legendary prize fighter Rocky Graziano is in many ways a typical by-the-numbers Hollywood biopic. However, expert direction by Robert Wise and a super-energetic performance by a young and hungry Paul Newman combine to make it an exciting screen experience. Some of the fight scenes come close to the stark realism of Martin Scorsese's RAGING BULL. And in the early moments of the film, showing the difficult, crime-ridden life of the young Rocky, the stylized cinematography and the jazzy soundtrack reminded me of a future Robert Wise classic, WEST SIDE STORY.

Newman is surrounded by a talented supporting cast. Beautiful Pier Angeli plays Nora, the fighter's loyal, loving wife. His parents are played by Eileen Heckart and Harold J. Stone. Robert Loggia plays a sleazy ex-con who tries to ruin Graziano when he refuses to throw a fight. And Sal Mineo, one year after his impressive turn in REBEL WITHOUT A CAUSE, plays Romolo, Graziano's longtime friend and partner in crime. Mineo, looking older and leaner than in the earlier film, shows his versatility as an actor and manages to keep up with the frenetic Newman. Also seen briefly is Steve McQueen in an early, uncredited performance. Other actors in small, uncredited roles are Dean Jones, Ray Stricklyn, and little Angela Cartwright (LOST IN SPACE) as Graziano's daughter.