Matt Fisher’s review published on Letterboxd:
When I step into what is widely considered a classic "noir" film I have a few expectations, steely eyed yet corruptible men, women of loose morals, ornate yet precise and witty dialogue. What really separated this film from other noir/dramas from the time is how the element of justice is played out. Often the characters just desserts are shoehorned into the story to appease the industry at the time, but here it's very much a part of the fabric of this film. Really about half the movie is dedicated to making sure that those responsible for wrong doings receive their comeuppance which makes for a harrowing ride; we're both rooting for the heroes, but rightfully anticipate and accept their ultimate undoing for a huge chunk of the journey. "Asphalt" is a apt adjective for this one, the world that these people live in is hard and when you butt heads expecting to break it, it could just as easily break you.