Public Domain Movies | The Man with the Golden Arm

Frankie Machine (played by Frank Sinatra), a skilled card dealer and former heroin addict, who is released from prison and returns to his gritty Chicago neighborhood. Frankie is determined to stay clean and rebuild his life after overcoming his addiction while in prison.

However, Frankie faces numerous challenges as he attempts to reintegrate into society. He is greeted by his wife Zosch (Eleanor Parker), a fellow addict who still struggles with her own demons. Zosch is confined to a wheelchair, and their relationship is strained by their tumultuous past.

Frankie's dream is to become a jazz drummer, and he starts taking steps toward achieving that goal. However, he faces pressure from his old neighborhood and former acquaintances, including his former dealer, Louie (Darren McGavin), who tries to lure him back into the drug trade.

As Frankie strives for a better life, the film explores themes of addiction, recovery, and the impact of environment on personal choices. It delves into the psychology of addiction and the challenges of breaking free from a cycle of destructive behavior (1955).

Director: Otto Preminger

Stars: Frank Sinatra, Kim Novak, Eleanor Parker


The Man with the Golden Arm (1955) on IMDb