You can’t really go wrong if you know who to say yes to and no to around here. Flamingo Road was directed by Michael Curtiz and features a screenplay adaptation by Robert Wilder, based on his play of the same name (with Sally Wilder). The film stars Joan Crawford, Sydney Greenstreet, Zachary Scott, David Bryan, and Gladys George. Max Steiner composed the music, and Ted D. McCord handled the cinematography. When fate lands Lane Bellamy (Crawford) in Bolden City, she soon becomes involved in a romance and finds herself at odds with Sheriff Titus Semple (Greenstreet), a corrupt political figure. Those Moody types always seem to stir up problems. Combining Southern Gothic elements with political melodrama and noir touches, Flamingo Road rises above the average thanks to its talented crew and Greenstreet’s particularly unpleasant performance. At its heart, it's about a woman from a lower social standing trying to climb the ladder, but she has to confront someone truly awful while also dealing with romantic complications. Flamingo - Affluent - Road! The storytelling is well-executed; the screenplay skillfully combines political corruption with manipulative social behavior. Curtiz (Mildred Pierce/The Unsuspected) and McCord (Johnny Belinda/The Breaking Point) maintain a brisk pace and create a suitably dark atmosphere, while Greenstreet—sweaty, mysterious, and devilish—is supported by a capable cast. And what about Crawford? Apparently she "suggested" Curtiz be given the director’s chair, and her performance is captivating and thoroughly committed to the part. It's true that she seems older than her character, which some of her fans won't like hearing, especially since the actors playing her romantic interests are roughly a decade younger—a bit jarring for the time period. Nevertheless, her skill quickly wins you over; the filmmakers use soft lighting on her, and the writer provides her with strong material to work with. It’s an odd film in some respects, but it's also fascinating and consistently engaging, showcasing quality from everyone involved. 7/10

Source on TMDB