Crime Wave
1953 · Movie · NR · 73 min · ★ 7.1 · 72% critics
A reformed parolee trying to build a quiet life is pulled back toward trouble when a wounded former associate shows up seeking shelter. With police pressure mounting and other criminals closing in, he’s forced into a desperate situation that threatens his freedom and the safety of his home.
Where to watch
Streaming on HBO Max.
1 hour to watch.
Stream (included)
Streaming availability and prices may be inaccurate or change — verify with the provider before subscribing.
unSUB's subscription recommendations are informational only, not financial advice.
More value for your money
Similar titles, ranked by watch-hours per subscription dollar.
Details
- Years
- 1953
- Release date
- 1953-10-22
- Language
- English
- Rated
- NR
- Runtime
- 73 min
- Critic score
- 72/100
- TMDB rating
- 7.1/10 (83 votes)
About
You’ll likely enjoy this if you want a lean, hard-edged noir about an ex-con trapped between criminals and the law, with a tense, gritty mood like The Killing or Armored Car Robbery; Not for you if hostage threats and bleak violence aren’t your thing.
Pros: swift compact storytelling; gritty tough atmosphere; strong supporting cast | Cons: uneven lead performance; script can feel thin; violence and menace
Themes
- cop-killer
- film noir
- man hunt
- home invasion
- ex-con
- one last job
- criminal gang
- crime spree
- parolee
- bank heist
- ex-cell mate
- gun death
Cast & crew
Sterling Hayden
as Det. Lt. Sims
Gene Nelson
as Steve Lacey
Phyllis Kirk
as Ellen Lacey
Ted de Corsia
as 'Doc' Penny
Charles Bronson
as Ben Hastings
Jay Novello
as Dr. Otto Hessler
Nedrick Young
as Gat Morgan
James Bell
as Daniel O'Keefe
Dub Taylor
as Gus Snider
- GK
Gayle Kellogg
as Detective Kelly
Directed by André de Toth