Double Cross

Thoroughly routine PRC programmer, filmed in dreary pedestrian style. At least some atmospherics would have compensated for a patchwork script, erratic acting, and sloppy staging— for example, note the incredible "ducking bullets is for sissies" highway shoot-out, or the rope on Jim's hands that miraculously re-ties itself. But then this is PRC and they're probably on a three-day shooting schedule. Still, I suspect that with better material and more engaged direction, the cast would have delivered more respectable results.

No need to recap the plot, except that double-crosses abound. On the other hand, Richmond makes a handsome square-jawed hero, while Moore's lovely good girl Ellen resembles an unglamorized Hedy LaMarr. But above all there's Frank Moran as Cookie, with probably the friendliest ugly mug in Hollywood. They should have thrown more scenes his way since he's the movie's one notable feature. The two-shots with him and Ellen are like Beauty and the Beast and probably gave the director a few chuckles. Anyway, I can't say I didn't ask for disappointment by tuning in to what I knew was a PRC cheapo. Still, they did sometimes hit pay-dirt, as with the noir classic, Detour (1945). No such luck here. I suggest you skip this one, unless it's to catch the sublime Moran.