Robert Mitchum (1917–1997)

“I’ve led a very sheltered life. I thought every girl was named mama till I was 21.” — Mitchum, trying to charm Darnell

If you are a fan of atmosphere and the two lead stars in this film, and don't mind that much of the happenings are best left unexamined, then the tense and harrowing climax of this film will make what came before it play much better than it is in reality. Howard Hughes picked this film to be the first RKO production shot in 3-D and it is very easy to see why once viewed. Rudolph Mate shot it in places like Cuernavaca, Morelos, Taxo, and Guerrero, giving it a real South American feel throughout. Beautiful scenery and atmosphere make it easy to ignore the film's deficiencies, especially in the last third of the film, which is as tense and exciting as any you'll see. It is so good in fact, it almost feels like you are suddenly watching a different movie, Mate and Mitchum just enjoying the atmosphere themselves, and saving the good stuff for last.

Mitchum is Russ Lambert, a boxer afraid to throw his big right hand after putting an opponent down for the longest count that exists. He and his manager are traveling around fighting lesser-knowns so he can win without the risk of hurting anyone else. Linda Darnell is Clare Sinclair/Sheppard, on the run from boyfriend and gangster Vic Spilato. He has sent his own deadly right hand to bring her back before she can testify against him. Gunsmoke fans will easily recognize Milburn Stone in the brief role of Spilato's bookkeeper, Edward Dawson, who says the wrong thing to Cappy (Jack Palance). Seeing the headline about his death, Clare knows Vic has found her. But Cappy's loyalty to Vic is suspect, having a thing for Clare himself. While she tries not to fall for Russ, Cappy tracks them down amid some spicy flavor provided by Mate and Hughes.

A lovely spot called ‘the mountain of contentment’ is simply there to enjoy, as are the fireworks at the Spanish wedding of a young couple. A rather suggestive dance at the celebration by a married woman is thrown into the fragrant pot as well, as is a magnificent tram ride between the gorgeous peaks. Clare tries to ditch Russ so he won't get hurt, but he’s in for the long haul and tries to convince her they can make a new start. When Cappy finds them onboard the tram, it sets the stage for a spectacular finish that will have viewers on the edge of their seats. The newly married couple (Maurice Jara — Judy Walsh), the decent man who killed his wayward wife for her indiscretions (Rudolfo Hoyos Jr.), the young son he loves (Richard Vera), the cop escorting him to jail (Salvador Baguez), two English tourists (Reginald Sheffield — Margaret Brewster), and the proud cable car conductor (Sandro Giglio) all join the trio for a ride no moviegoer will ever forget.

The fight between Russ and Cappy on the swinging tram whose one fraying cable could break at any moment is just one highlight which make the last thirty minutes of this film terrific viewing. A blindfolded boy may end up picking who lives and who dies. Whether all the thrills in this film come too late for you depends on your own taste. If you are a stickler for plot and motivations, this one isn't for you in any way, shape or form. I went with it all because of the atmosphere and the stars, so enjoyed it a ton despite that. Others will have to make up their own minds, so it is best to search out the least expensive option before shelling out big bucks.… (mere)