I Walk Alone (1947)

After serving 14 years in prison, an ex-bootlegger (Burt Lancaster) is released and goes to meet his ex-partner (Kirk Douglas). But he finds things have changed since he went to prison and the rough ways of the prohibition era no longer work in the more civilized world of crime. Based on the play BEGGARS ARE COMING TO TOWN by Theodore Reeves and directed by Byron Haskin (WAR OF THE WORLDS). This stylish slice of film noir is plentiful with atmosphere and nicely shot in B&W by Leo Tover (THE HEIRESS). This was the first of seven pairings for Lancaster and Douglas and their chemistry is rich in testosterone. As the film's femme fatale, Lizabeth Scott is less stiff than usual and looks gorgeous. The film's highlight is the scene where Lancaster finds out he can no longer push his way into taking over when crime hides behind legitimate businesses with boards of directors and multiple corporation ownership. It may be second tier noir but this is still good stuff. With Wendell Corey, Kristine Miller, George Rigaud, Mike Mazurki and Marc Lawrence.