Shakedown

I think this is what it means to 'take no prisoners'. Peggy Dow is totally beguiling.

He sure gets himself in a lot of trouble, but I couldn't help feel Howard Duff was poorly cast for this role. Not that his type of personality didn't bring something to the manipulative mix, but you never truly feel his dark side. The story is quite interesting, so it's not like it was a bad experience or anything. But I'm sure a different actor could have elevated it all.

Ruthless and cynical, with one of the most despicable protagonists this side of Mike Hammer. Duff plays it completely unsympathetic, delivering his lines with barely concealed contempt and ambition. The supporting performances are all pretty good, too, especially Tierney. The story is lean and mean, like the production. It's a decidedly low-budget affair, a little more polish might have amped up the tension. The film doesn't pack much of an emotional punch, but it is a down and dirty good time.