Jack Elam, Lee Van Cleef, Neville Brand: three of the most notable bad guys in movie history.

The performance of the actors in this movie is very strong- comparable to modern standards with subtle moments of shifting emotions well displayed on their faces, a complex plot with characters who have more depth than they get in many films like this. All have their own motivations and none are simple stereotypes.The action is also creative and surprising with some actions taken which I've never seen in a movie before.I suspect that the director has something to do with the uniformity of the excellent performances by the cast. In the case of Jack Elam, his work here was extremely strong and he wasn't alone.Production values are nothing spectacular but don't distract.I'm going to look for other works by this director. I think this is a gem among movies in this period and budget range.

I decided to review this film noir today because it is opening at the Film Noir festival in San Francisco. I own a copy and usually watch it once a year. I have watched it seven (7) times over the last ten years.Phil Karlson directs and utilized a variety of actors who are recognizable in the film noir genre. These include: John Payne, Coleen Gray, Preston Foster, Neville Brand, Jack Elam and Lee Van Cleef. The plot gets complicated in Mexico because Foster's daughter (i.e Coleen Grey) falls for the anti-hero Joe Rolfe (John Payne).The plot is multi-layered and involves all the major actors. Justice prevails after a number of plot twists in a sleepy, isolated resort in Mexico.

A down-on-his-luck ex-GI.He finds himself framed for an armored car robbery.When he's finally released for lack of evidence--after having been beaten up and tortured by the police--he sets out to discover who set him up, and why. The trail leads him into Mexico and a web of hired killers and corrupt cops.Lots of recognizable character actors. The action is tight as a 22 year old and the story equally compelling.Well done, although the the available prints lack quality.