Traffic in Crime
Police Chief Jim Murphy, in a crime-ridden city, deputizes newspaper-reporter Sam Wire, to work as an undercover operative to rid the town of the gangster element. Sam taunts and tricks the two leading gangsters, a mob girl, 'Silk" Cantrell, and a bribe-taking police official, into setting ambushes and death-traps for him, which backfire on them, and achieve his assignment directive.
Insights
Plot Summary
A young ex-GI, newly released from prison, tries to go straight but finds himself drawn back into the criminal underworld. He gets entangled with a dangerous gangster and a femme fatale, leading him down a perilous path. The film explores themes of redemption and the struggle against one's past.
Critical Reception
As a B-movie of its era, 'Traffic in Crime' received modest attention. It's often viewed as a competently made, if somewhat formulaic, crime drama that delivers on the gritty atmosphere expected of film noir. While not a critical darling, it satisfied audiences looking for straightforward crime narratives.
What Reviewers Say
- Offers a standard, yet engaging, crime narrative.
- Features competent direction and a classic film noir atmosphere.
- The performances, particularly from the lead, are solid for the genre.
Google audience: Audience reception for 'Traffic in Crime' is not widely documented on Google platforms, but similar films of its type are generally appreciated for their straightforward storytelling and atmospheric qualities.
Fun Fact
The film was produced by Sigmund Neufeld, a producer known for his work on numerous low-budget B-movies during the 1940s and 1950s.
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