Many good reviews here have discussed the plot and the comparisons with the well-known DeNiro version--and I must agree with the majority who rank this original higher.
Mitchum's riveting villain is capable of employing considerable charm, which creates a contrast to his monstrosity-- he would've walked away with the picture if not for Peck's own performance (and those of a good supporting cast) along with a tight script and direction. It's more dated and lacks the profanity and graphic violence of the remake; and the daughter, written as a teenager, is played by an actress who looks barely past twelve--but that makes Cady's villainy even more despicable. And somehow it all looks even more sinister in black and white. Don't miss it.
Mitchum's riveting villain is capable of employing considerable charm, which creates a contrast to his monstrosity-- he would've walked away with the picture if not for Peck's own performance (and those of a good supporting cast) along with a tight script and direction. It's more dated and lacks the profanity and graphic violence of the remake; and the daughter, written as a teenager, is played by an actress who looks barely past twelve--but that makes Cady's villainy even more despicable. And somehow it all looks even more sinister in black and white. Don't miss it.