Question 1

Why did director André De Toth finish filming 'Crime Wave' under schedule and under budget?

Accepted Answer

André De Toth protested Jack L. Warner's casting choices, leading Warner to allow him to make the movie his way in two weeks, which De Toth finished under schedule and under budget with his preferred star, Sterling Hayden.

Question 2

What unusual habit does Detective Sims have in 'Crime Wave', and why did Sterling Hayden adopt it for his performance?

Accepted Answer

Sims chews toothpicks because his doctor forbids cigarettes, a habit Sterling Hayden used to add grumpiness and hostility to his performance, as director André De Toth wouldn't allow him to smoke on screen.

Question 3

Which actor made his only film noir appearance in 'Crime Wave', and what role did he play?

Accepted Answer

Gene Nelson, known as a song-and-dance man, made his only film noir appearance in 'Crime Wave' as the lead character Steve Lacey.

Question 4

How quickly did director André De Toth complete filming 'Crime Wave' compared to the studio's offer?

Accepted Answer

André De Toth was offered a 35-day shooting schedule but said he could finish in 15 days; he actually completed filming in 13 days.

Question 5

What borrowed footage appears in 'Crime Wave', and from which earlier film is it taken?

Accepted Answer

A few seconds of footage showing police cars stopping at a police station are borrowed from the 1950 film 'Gun Crazy' (also known as 'Deadly Is the Female').

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Crime Wave

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