NYPD detectives Bonaro and Madigan lose their guns to fugitive Barney Benesch. As compensation, they are given a weekend to bring Benesch to justice. While they follow various leads, Police Commissioner Russell goes about his duties, including attending functions, meeting with aggrieved relatives, and counseling the spouses of fallen officers.
Direction
Siegel's documentary-style NYC locations breathe authentic grime.
Acting
Widmark and Fonda's tense commissioner-vs.-detective power plays.
Writing
Screenplay by Abraham Polonsky, blacklisted writer working under pseudonym.
Director
Don Siegel
Richard Widmark
Det. Daniel Madigan
Henry Fonda
Commissioner Anthony X. Russell
Inger Stevens
Julia Madigan
Harry Guardino
Det. Rocco Bonaro
James Whitmore
Chief Inspector Charles Kane
Susan Clark
Tricia Bentley
Michael Dunn
Midget Castiglione
Steve Ihnat
Barney Benesch
Don Stroud
Hughie
Sheree North
Jonesy
Warren Stevens
Capt. Ben Williams
Raymond St. Jacques
Dr. Taylor
Bert Freed
Chief of Detectives Hap Lynch
Harry Bellaver
Mickey Dunn
Trivia, insights & behind the scenes
Screenwriter Howard Rodman was a front for blacklisted Abraham Polonsky; Polonsky finally received credit in 1996.
The TV series adaptation (1968-69) starred Richard Widmark but flopped—audiences preferred their cops less morally compromised.
US
