Cast overview, first billed only: | |||
Alan Ladd | ... | Steve Rollins | |
Edward G. Robinson | ... | Victor Amato | |
Joanne Dru | ... | Marcia Rollins | |
William Demarest | ... | Dan Bianco | |
Paul Stewart | ... | Joe Lye | |
Perry Lopez | ... | Mario Amato | |
Fay Wray | ... | Kay Stanley | |
Renata Vanni | ... | Anna Amato | |
Nestor Paiva | ... | Louis Fiaschetti | |
Stanley Adams | ... | Hammy | |
Willis Bouchey | ... | Police Lt. Paul Neville | |
Peter Hansen | ... | Detective Connors (as Peter Hanson) | |
Anthony Caruso | ... | Sebastian Pasmonick | |
Peter J. Votrian | ... | George Pasmonick (as Peter Votrian) | |
George J. Lewis | ... | Father Larocca |
When ex-cop Steve Rollins is released from San Quentin after five years, his only thoughts are of revenge on the men who framed him for manslaughter. Back in San Francisco, his quest for the truth brings him up against ruthless waterfront gang boss Victor Amato. Written by Ian Harries <ih@doc.ic.ac.uk>
Edward G Robinson dismissed this one with a passing comment in his autobiography and it's not hard to see why. He exudes menace in the classic 'Little Caesar' manner and his interplay with the underrated Paul Stewart does have a touch of real quality. However, Cinemascope is not a process designed for urban thrillers and the wide open spaces rob the film of any sense of tension or claustrophobia. The greatest weakness, however, lies in Ladd's robotic performance. His boredom is evident throughout and the lacklustre supporting cast do little to help. In the end Robinson is left out on his own, gat in hand, the true professional giving it all he's got.