What It's About:

After busting out of jail, IRA operative Johnny McQueen (Mason) executes a daring robbery to fund operations against the British occupiers in Northern Ireland. The job goes awry, Johnny is shot in the process, and becomes a fugitive. Will he make it to safety before his wounds turn fatal?

Why I Love It:

Director Carol Reed helped cement James Mason's stardom with this gritty, gripping nail-biter. Mason is indeed electric as the desperate protagonist. The under-rated Robert Newton is also memorable as Lukey, a slightly unhinged painter who harbors Johnny for a time. Fans of suspense and film noir should pounce on this fabulous political thriller.