The look and outline and pulse is like solid film noir, but the dialogue (especially the exchanges with George C. Scott) and some of the other particulars are so pinpoint clever and satisfying it hardly seems fair to lump the film into any one genre. There is also some humanity here, which in other circumstances might seem excessive, but here, because of the hardness of Ben Gazzara, it’s all okay. It’s more than okay.

Note: I needs to see me some more Prems, huh? This was my first.

Note: I hates to say something so crass as what I’m about to say—and, you know, here and everything—but this film transfer is one of the best I’ve seen. The contrast, sharpness, picture is just so wonderfully done by Criterion. I have no choice but to make mention. That is all.