Product: Pickup on South Street (The Criterion Collection) (1953)
Rating: 5.0
"Everybody likes everybody when they're kissing."
This gritty, classic Sam Fuller film noir is one of the very best movies of the 1950's. The cinematography, excellent cast, and sharp dialogue make this one of the best noirs of all time. Richard Widmark has always been one of my favorite actors, and here, even as a two-bit pickpocket, is one of his rare "good guy" roles. And veteran character actress Thelma Ritter gives an incredible oscar-nominated performance.Widmark plays Skip McCoy, a crafy but unlucky pickpocket who's already been convicted three times ("a three-time loser") and yet continues to steal and risk a fourth conviction that would keep him in prison for life. He steals a wallet from "Candy" (played by the lovely Jean Peters) that contains a secret microfilm meant for a gang of communist spies. After being identified as the thief by the local stoolie (Thelma Ritter), McCoy has Candy, spies, and the police looking for him. He eventually falls for Candy and they begin a love affair that could prove fatal for both.Widmark and Jean Peters have an electrical chemistry together and the entire cast is simply outstanding. The on-location shots of New York add to the realistic mood of this film noir. This is an incredible dvd, with plenty of great bonus features as well as a beautifully restored print of this unforgettable classic. If you're a fan of classic film noir add this gem to your collection!