Watch Shield for Murder

Shield for Murder is a 1954 crime film directed by Howard W. Koch and Edmond O'Brien. The film stars O'Brien in the lead role of a corrupt police detective named Barney Nolan who has gone beyond the limits of law and order to get what he wants. The story is based on a novel with the same name by William P. McGivern and has been adapted for the screen by Richard Alan Simmons and John C. Higgins.

The plot of the film revolves around Nolan, who is a detective in the homicide division of the police force. He is known for his tough and unconventional methods of solving cases, even if it means breaking the law. Nolan is involved in the investigation of a jewelry store robbery that has resulted in the death of the store owner. As the investigation proceeds, Nolan becomes increasingly frustrated with the lack of leads and suspects in the case. In a desperate attempt to crack the case, he kills one of the suspects in cold blood and steals his money.

As the case progresses, Nolan becomes more reckless and his behavior becomes increasingly erratic. He starts living a luxurious lifestyle and begins to distance himself from his colleagues and friends. Meanwhile, a young police officer named Mark Brewster, played by John Agar, begins to suspect Nolan's involvement in the robbery and murder. Despite being warned by his superiors to stay away from Nolan, Brewster continues to investigate the case, leading to a deadly confrontation between the two.

The film is known for its intense and gritty portrayal of police corruption and its impact on the lives of those involved. O'Brien's performance as Barney Nolan is the highlight of the film, as he brilliantly portrays a character who is increasingly consumed by his own greed and ambition. His performance is complemented by the strong supporting cast, which includes John Agar as the young and idealistic police officer, Marla English as the femme fatale named Patty Winters, and many others.

The film also features a number of memorable scenes, including a tense and suspenseful climax involving Nolan and Brewster. The film's visual style and cinematography are also noteworthy, with the use of shadow and light to create a noirish atmosphere that reflects the darkness and corruption at the heart of the story.

In summary, Shield for Murder is a classic crime film that has stood the test of time. It is a gripping and intense drama that explores the dark side of police corruption and its consequences. With its strong performances, memorable scenes, and stylish cinematography, it is a must-see for fans of film noir and crime dramas.

Shield for Murder is a 1954 crime movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 22 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.8.