San Quentin

Thoroughly routine cops and robbers, whose only distinction may be Raymond Burr's first screen appearance. The first part is a not very convincing look at reformed convicts who passed through the prison's controversial reform program. It's a worthy topic, but spread on pretty thick. The movie's main part is straight cops and robbers, with reformed convict Tierney trying to nab ruthless MacLane who's abused the program and given it a bad name.

Tierney was always more of a presence than an actor. Here his role tends to fade him into the background, overshadowed by the always energized MacLane who ends up stealing the show. Surprisingly, the staging is not noir though the film comes from noir's Mecca, RKO. Instead, prolific director Douglas films in pretty straightforward style, doing little to heighten either suspense or atmosphere. Unfortunately, the result looks like just another studio assignment for him. Fortunately, the movie has two real feminine eye-catchers, the blonde Carr and the brunette Forman. Both are real additions to the rather lackluster visuals.

All in all, the movie's not a good vehicle for Tierney's odd appeal. Nor is it compelling cops and robbers. While Burr is more the fall guy than the menacing heavy he could be.