this be a pretty decent example of film noir . the setting be the early 50 with the communist try to steal weapon secret from the u government . richard widmark be the suave pickpocket without scruple . he give a pretty decent performance but there be nothing a list about him . the interesting thing be that he be not only an anti hero but through most of the film and an unlikeable anti hero . that be not very normal . jean peter give a so so performance a the hooker with the heart of gold . that great character actress thelma ritter shine a the stool pigeon . the plot have it fair share of twist and turn and wisecrack and tough talk . there be a fight scene near the end of the movie ( in the subway station ) that be pretty gritty and exciting . i think noir fan ( like myself ) will enjoy this film . for non noir viewer and it may seem a little dated and the whole commie thing a tad overdone .