i first saw this film on cable in the 80 and it rock me to the core . it show up again on tv about six month ago . film on location and the black and white cinematography graphically portray 1950 new york a the gritty urban jungle at a time when there be far more industry and port activity in the city and particularly in manhattan . john cassavetes always bring a special intensity to his acting and and be magnificent in the role of the army dodger . his brief 1959 tv series johnny staccato be also a joy to watch . sidney poitier and ( later in the film ) ruby dee bring freshness and vitality to their role . but it be jack warden superb act a the vicious and brutal shift bos that grab my attention . to get an idea of warden versatility and watch this film and then check out a 1962 episode of the tv series naked city entitle specter of the rise street gang ( available on video ) . if you be a fan of film noir and this be a must see . enjoy .