The role of Conte’s Brown was originally given to Jack Palance, but he clashed with producers and stormed off the set. Conte gave a very Palance-like performance. Perennial heavy Lee Van Cleef, along with Earl Holliman, are Brown’s henchmen, and apparently more than just friends. The characters, not the actors.
Many familiar faces round out the cast. Helene Stanton is memorable as Detective Diamond’s sometimes girlfriend, and Brian Donlevy (The Great McGinty) is great as the henchman on his way down. Helen Walker was a rising star when she had a terrible automobile accident while carrying three hitchhiking war veterans. Everyone sustained serious injuries and one soldier died. Acquitted of charges, she nevertheless carried the stigma and better roles dried up. Her small appearance here marked her last feature film credit, and would only make sporadic television appearances over the next few years. Cancer would take her at age 47.
The Big Combo is an effective, if improbable crime drama. Diamond is relentless and consequently a little dull, but not to worry. Conte’s Brown and others more than makes up for it. Interesting story, good performances, and real consequences. AMRU 3.5.
I just learned that the last living cast member, Earl Holliman, passed away a couple days ago. He was 96.
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