The Big Heat

In 'The Big Heat' (1953), a tenacious cop, Dave Bannion, probes into a police officer’s suicide. His investigation leads him into the underworld of corrupt cops and a crime syndicate, endangering himself and those close to him. This classic noir film is renowned for its brutal violence and stark portrayal of corruption.

• Lee Marvin's breakthrough role as a movie villain.
• Based on a Saturday Evening Post serial by William P. McGivern.
• Marlene Dietrich was considered for the role of Debby Marsh.
• The film had no score, opting for diegetic music instead.
• Fritz Lang's only film noir for Columbia Pictures.

• 'I've been rich and I've been poor. Believe me, rich is better.'
• 'She's as reliable as a two-dollar cornet.'
• 'I wouldn't want you to get a chill.'
• 'Keep the coffee hot.'
• 'I like you, you're a nice guy.'