Review of 99 River Street (1953) by Paul Z — 04 Nov 2012

There was a humble brilliance that often emerged from the classic Hollywood genre cinema that is perfectly realized in this gritty, sharply written gem helmed by low-budget workhorse Phil Karlson. John Payne's down-trodden protagonist has our sympathy from minute one to fade out, making the detours in the constantly thrilling plot that much more exciting, and the un-noir-like ending gratifying and well-earned.

The cast is refreshingly eclectic, distinctive, real, likable and memorable, as is the nuanced night-world atmosphere, which is another equally well-realized character.