Hunted Men Reviews

Nolan is a tough gangster boss forced to go on the lam after murdering double-crossing nightclub owner Crabbe in a money dispute. Picked up by friendly (and drunken) middle-class homeowner Overman, Nolan can't believe his luck when the man mistakes him for an old buddy and invites him to stay in his home. Nolan accepts the invitation and soon grows to like Overman's family (especially daughter Carlisle) and they him. Overman's young son Watson takes a special liking to the stranger and begins a case of hero worship. Nolan's lawyer, Naish, likes the setup and drops by occasionally to update his boss on police progress into the case. Eventually Nolan is forced to reveal his identity to the family, and when the cops close in he can't persuade himself to hold the family hostage. Ultimately, Nolan forces the cops to kill him. A taut little thriller that falls precariously close to being maudlin. For the best rendition of similar material see THE DESPERATE HOURS with Frederic March and Humphrey Bogart.