The hardworking detectives of the 87th Precinct in an unnamed city during a massive heat wave investigate the seemingly random murders of policemen.
Do you have any images for this title?
Cast overview, first billed only: | |||
Robert Loggia | ... | Detective Steve Carelli | |
Gerald S. O'Loughlin | ... | Detective Mike Maguire (as Gerald O'Loughlin) | |
Ellen Parker | ... | Teddy Franklin | |
![]() |
Shirley Ballard | ... | Alice Maguire |
Russell Hardie | ... | Detective Lt. Byrnes | |
![]() |
Hal Riddle | ... | Mercer |
![]() |
Bill Neff | ... | Kling - Rookie Cop (as William Neff) |
![]() |
Gene Miller | ... | Miller - Reporter |
Vincent Gardenia | ... | Danny the Gimp (as Vince Gardenia) | |
![]() |
John Gerstad | ... | Laboratory Technician |
![]() |
Ralph Stantley | ... | Detective Hal Willis |
Glenn Cannon | ... | Rip - Gang Leader (as Glen Gannon) | |
![]() |
Alan Manson | ... | Clark - Newlywed |
![]() |
Sandra Stevens | ... | Newlywed Wife |
![]() |
Janet Manson | ... | Maggie Reardon (as Jan Kalionzes) |
The hardworking detectives of the 87th Precinct in an unnamed city during a massive heat wave investigate the seemingly random murders of policemen.
Cop Hater (1958)
This is no brilliant affair, but it's more enjoyable than you might expect. It centers around a precinct police station and a group of guys who are suddenly on a manhunt for a cop killer. While that part of the plot has its small moments, it's the interaction between these guys, including some honest fun banter (not tough guy stuff), that really works. And two or three of the main cops are good actors, holding their own.
There are women on the side, one a searing beauty of some sort (a bit exaggerated and stiff, but you get the idea when she's on), the other a sharp and stylish deaf and mute woman played by Ellen Parker. These types are obviously meant to be opposites, one sympathetic and modest, the other full of herself and untrustworthy.
There is a Latino gang that figures into play eventually, and that gets a little crazy in its own way. And the leader is Glenn Cannon, who went on to have a long career on t.v. This is his first movie and he's pretty terrific for his four minutes of fame.
Otherwise this is a conventionally filmed crime film. Don't expect a gritty or moody film noir, because it's not that. But do expect a well paced plot with some nice interpersonal stuff. Probably has more honesty to it than most crime movies of the time, which are pumped up with types and drama.