This is a real hidden gem. A time capsule of life in the mid-1950's, all captured with wonderful color and cinematography in real locations in Arizona towns. All of the performers, from Victor Mature to Sylvia Sidney, are excellent, playing small town Arizona residents and the men who come to rob their bank. This story will grab you and not let go until the very end. Director Fleischer does a masterful job of building tension and drama on par with the best of what Hitchcock had to offer. Too bad Fleischer didn't make more films like this. He definitely understood the genre. Actors Mature and Richard Egan give the best performances of their careers and Margaret Hayes and Virginia Leith are phenomenal. It is surprising that their careers didn't take off after appearing here. Leith is particularly striking, but apparently 20th Century Fox did not renew her contract after this movie. What were they thinking ? Credit must be given to the writers, Sydney Boehm (screenplay) and William L. Heath (novel), for a script that is detailed, thoughtful, and sharp, giving every actor and actress scenes and dialogue that allow them to just shine in their performances. The expert editing and music only adds to the drama. You may find yourself biting your nails before this is over.
Review of Violent Saturday
