This stylistic thriller is a suspenseful drama of betrayal and violence. Nick Bianco (Victor Mature) is a small-time hoodlum who's convicted of a jewel heist and sent to Sing Sing. Three years into his term, he's double-crossed by his shyster lawyer and accomplices. He makes a deal with the Assistant D.A. (Brian Donlevy), and is paroled, but it's not that easy. Bianco testifies against sadistic murderer Tommy Udo (Richard Widmark), but he beats the rap. The terrifying climax is a stand-off between the psychopathic maniac Udo and Bianco, a man who's only trying to protect his family.