_The Big Heat_ provides a powerful example of film noir, with moments of surprising brutality—particularly the well-known scene involving hot coffee—that remain striking and exceed what’s typical for films of that era. Fritz Lang constructs an uncompromisingly bleak story centered on themes of dishonesty and retribution, supported by Gloria Grahame and Lee Marvin, both of whom give exceptionally captivating performances; their skill is likely to elicit admiration and wonder. Still, Glenn Ford's depiction of Bannion doesn't quite resonate as strongly, his rigidity seeming less impactful when compared to Marvin’s threatening presence. It comes close to being a truly great film, but the main actor prevents it from reaching that level.

Source on TMDB