In The Big Steal, Joan Graham (Jane Greer) is after her fiancé, Jim Fiske (Patric Knowles), who skipped to Mexico with $2,000, ends up involved with Duke Halliday (Robert Mitchum) who is seeking the fugitive as well, for a much bigger sum stolen in a payroll heist. Halliday in turn is being pursued by his superior officer in the U.S. Army, Vincent Blake (William Bendix). An extended chase makes up much of the running time, as Joan and Duke chase Fiske even as Blake chases them. At the same time, the clever Inspector General Ortega (Ramon Novarro) watches and manipulates the players in hopes of catching the big crooks involved. Greer and Mitchum work well together, with effective banter and a certain sizzle; Bendix is convincing as the driven Capt. Blake; Knowles makes for a heel whose charm is understandable; and Novarro makes the most of his role as well. Solid entertainment delivered with efficiency.

Recommended. Otto finds this one pleasing enough to relax.