A complex web of intrigue is woven in this atmospheric film noir. Close attention is required to follow the plot, and even then it may still be difficult to understand what makes the characters tick. No matter; mysterious murders, coolly composed tough guys, femme fatales, and a brooding moodiness only glorious black and white can capture are the real reasons to see this film, and The Glass Key offers plenty of each. Fine performances from all round out this strong adaptation of Dashiell Hammett's novel.