“Up the River” is a 1930 comedy directed by John Ford, featuring the debut roles of Spencer Tracy and Humphrey Bogart. Set in a prison, the film follows inmates Saint Louis and Dannemora Dan as they befriend a new inmate, Steve, who is in love with a woman named Judy. Baseball games in the prison add a layer of camaraderie among them.

Upon release, Saint Louis and Dannemora Dan secure jobs and focus on helping Steve clear his name and reunite with Judy. The film mixes comedic elements with a look at reentry challenges after prison, using baseball as a subtle symbol of teamwork and hope that unites the characters.