Plot Details: This opinion reveals minor details about the movie's plot.

Some casual movie fans might not be that familiar with the work of John Huston, better-known to today's audiences as the father of Anjelica. Daddy had quite a body of work in his day, and it included "The Asphalt Jungle." There's plenty to like about this motion picture, which has something of a charming innocence 50 years after release despite a gritty subject.

The movie is something of a character study, except it is mostly told about the criminals and their point of view. Doc Riedenschneider (Sam Jaffe) is just out of prison and back in a Midwestern city with an idea to pull the "perfect" jewel robbery. He needs help, of course, so he goes about the business of recruiting a series of group of small-time operators to help. Dix (Sterling Hayden), Cobby Cobb (Marc Lawrence), Louis Ciavelli (Anthony Caruso) and Gus Minissi (James Whitmore) have parts in the heist. And the front money is supplied by Alonzo Emmerich (Louis Calhern), a silently bankrupt lawyer.

The motivation of the characters is examined in the first half of the picture, as everyone slowly gets together to prepare for the robbery. From there, Huston starts playing the cards like a master bridge player, one after the other.

The cast consists of a series of top character actors who obviously are enjoying their work. Jean Hagan plays Hayden's girlfriend nicely, and Marilyn Monroe has a brief but very effective part as Calhern's girlfriend. Members of the police turn up as well, but in very secondary roles.

There are plenty of night and interior scenes here, and the black and white photography really adds to the sense of urban grime. The music also is appropriately dramatic.

This film influenced directors for years with its lean, direct style, and it's easy to see why. I'm not sure if this will hold the interest of certain age groups, but it's still a solid choice if you're looking for a film rental on a free night.

Recommended: Yes

Viewing Format: VHS