Strange Film-Noir at the Peak of Popularity...1949...Before the 1950's Exorcised the Soul of Cinema's Post-War Dark-Turn.
Despite its Many Story Flaws, this Oddly Titled Noir is Riddled with Compelling Flourishes.
Virginia Mayo is a Dirty-Dame Femme Fatale that Oozes "Bad-Girl". Always Playing, Manipulating, and Using Her Smoldering Appeal to Make Sure She Gets What She Wants.
Elisha Cook Jr. Has a Bigger Role than Usual, as a "Gunsel" who Talks, Bullies, and Pushes People Around that Require More than His 5'5" Stature and a 6th Grade Education would Allow.
Zachary Scott is the "Fall-Guy" Lawyer (Shamus) who Collapses at the Whims of Mayo, makes Awful Decisions to Protect Her and is Sent "Up the River" for His Efforts.
But is Rescued by "Good-Girl" Dorthy Malone, a Librarian, who Comes to the Aid of a Lost and Wounded Scott. Her Role is Minimal and Not Up to Her Glamorous Potential.
Ignore the Ridiculous Plot Development and "B" Production Short-Comings.
Come for the Game Cast of "Pulp" Characters Delivered by Above Average Actors and a Fast-Paced Picture that Engages.
It will Have Your Head in a Spin.
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