Keep your theatre and the rats in it. 99 River Street comes from director Phil Karlson, with a screenplay by Robert Smith based on a story by George Zuckerman. The film features John Payne, Evelyn Keyes, Brad Dexter, Frank Faylen, Jay Adler, Eddie Waller, and Peggie Castle. Arthur Lange and Emil Newman composed the music, while Franz Planer handled the cinematography. Following an injury that forced his retirement from boxing, Ernie Driscoll (Payne) now earns a living as a cab driver. He’s constantly criticized by his wife, Pauline (Castle), for not being successful, pushing him to the edge when he discovers she's having an affair with a jewel thief. After Pauline is found dead in one of Ernie's cabs, he becomes the primary suspect. Alongside actress friend Linda James (Keyes), he tries to resolve the mystery threatening his life. A gritty film noir deserving more attention from those who appreciate the genre, 99 River Street has all the necessary components. While lacking some of the visual style that defines expressionism—something Karlson wasn't particularly focused on anyway—the movie still delivers a dark atmosphere. New York City serves as a backdrop to a world filled with infidelity, shady dealings, violent criminals, and theatrical personalities disconnected from reality in a way that’s almost comical if it weren’t so sad. At the heart of this landscape is Ernie Driscoll, a fundamentally decent man who resorts to violence when cornered emotionally or physically. As Karlson blends the worlds of theatre and reality through Ernie and Linda's experiences, he seems to be enjoying his colorful cast of characters. Payne portrays a tough anti-hero, Keyes embodies a resourceful heroine, Adler plays a reliably menacing fence, Dexter is an oily villain, and Castle delivers a convincingly self-centered wife. With supporting roles from thugs, persistent police officers, and the more sympathetic Faylen and Waller, the film creates a compelling mix of trouble, sexual tension, and unexpected moments of redemption. The violence feels raw and impactful, something Karlson always excelled at. Karlson also incorporates distinctive filmmaking techniques to give the movie an edgy feel. Ernie’s final fight is effectively presented with low angles and close-ups that highlight the sweat and pain—a clever way to mirror events later in the story. Another scene, where a frantic Linda pleads for Ernie's help, uses a fixed camera on her face, creating another memorable moment. The film also includes visual motifs like reflections and recurring scenes, one of which features Karlson filming Castle from a provocative angle. It’s cheeky—and she has great legs! A largely forgotten noir with an excellent cast (Payne is outstanding) and directed with skill, 99 River Street is worth watching. 8/10

Source on TMDB