But for the choppy editing this would be a top-notch color "film noir". Its socio-political message couldn't be clearer or more to the point. Some "important" people are so convinced that whatever they do is right, that their conduct amounts to group sociopathy. The crime story is interesting as it supports this theme, but the ultimate "solution" should not be too much of a surprise. The private detectives are a broad spectrum of types: very competent but world weary, incompetent but enthusiastic, venal losers, venal winners (after a fashion). The official police are a mixed bag too, but presented as mostly honest if not always too eager to press on the "important" people. There are some bad apples, though. In short, the film is a lot like life. There's great cast work by the principals and good color camera work to match the "noir" genre.
