Low budget “B” noir by director Irving Lerner is a cult film embraced by Martin Scorsese (its influences on
TAXI DRIVER are obvious). A cool and dispassionate hit man (Vince Edwards), quite possibly a misogynist, is taken aback to find out his next target is a woman (Caprice Toriel in an amateurish performance, apparently her only film role). Slowly, he begins to unravel. One can see why the film is admired. It’s spare and slightly Melvillelian but lacking Melville’s cold elegance. It’s also one of the talkiest thrillers I’ve ever seen with Edwards spouting off slightly existential views on life. Still, there’s no denying that it’s compelling even if it’s crudely made. There’s an annoying electric guitar score courtesy of Perry Botkin that’s reminiscent of Anton Karas’ annoying
THIRD MAN score. With Herschel Bernardi, Phillip Pine and Kathie Browne who has a showy scene as a call girl.
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