Cathy O'Donnell, Eleanor Parker, George Macready

Flixster Users

73% liked it

934 ratings

Critics

67% liked it

9 critics

Unrated, 1 hr. 43 min.

Directed by: William Wyler

Release Date: November 1, 1951

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DVD Release Date: October 25, 2005

Stats: 59 reviews

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Flixster Reviews (59)


  • October 29, 2009
    A very good "chamber" movie, with the setting being limited to a small locale (a police station) this case, the movie evolves around the dense relationships and small events turning into big one in the blink of an eye. The movie boasts an golden era cast, with a brisk Kirk Dougla...( read more)s in the lead. Yet, the movie comes alive through the smaller roles which are effectively casted as well, Joseph Wiseman (deceased only recently) shows off his lunatic repertoire while Cathy O' Donnell walks a fine line as slighlty disturbed woman under the influence. The movie tackles a very critical topic, considering it is an American (!) move from the 50ies (!), two thumbs up. With isses so un-canonical and an ending so unexpected, the movie stands apart from the usual Hollywood porridge of mediocricy and you by the time the film has finished, you can tell that it is based on play. The ambiguity of characters, the multidude of stories and the non-sensationalist ending feel fresh and entertaining.

    Good one,
    Henrik
  • January 18, 2007
    One day in a New York City police precinct where all kinds of people intersect. Kirk Douglas is the tough detective who is dealing with a case involving an abortionist. It also has a shoplifter, two dangerous burglars, and an embezzler. A taut in your face crime drama that featu...( read more)res a strong performance by Mr. Douglas and another good one by Eleanor Parker who plays his wife. One of the best of the detective movies from the 1950's.

    Detective McLeod: "Take a couple of drop dead pills".
  • October 29, 2009
    recommended by HenrikSchunk.....
  • August 15, 2009
    Very boring if you ask me.
  • May 21, 2009
    It doesn't start to get good until the end.
  • July 24, 2008
    Good solid film, somewhat dated. Eleanor Parker gives a lovely, delicate performance.
  • July 16, 2008
    nominated for best picture by NBR and at golden globes
  • March 13, 2007
    Not a bad story; and not an ending that I was looking for.

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