Criss Cross

Criss Cross, in the US on TCM and Fawesome, and in the UK on Amazon Prime Video, builds its case slowly and never cheats the reveal. The runtime earns every minute, with nothing here that feels like padding. With 184 viewer ratings on TMDB, this is not a title flying under the radar. Burt Lancaster leads a cast that carries the story without ever feeling mechanical. Start it on TCM whenever you need something guaranteed to land.

Whatever else is competing for your attention this week, Criss Cross is worth clearing space for. At its heart, Criss Cross understands what makes crime drama work — character first, plot second. An armored-car guard must join a robbery after being caught with his ex-wife by her gangster husband. The writing gets a boost from Burt Lancaster and Yvonne De Carlo, who sell every scene they're in. Criss Cross came out in 1949. Criss Cross is at its best in the quiet scenes between the plot beats, where the character work actually happens. There is real craft here, even in the moments that do not fully land.

Crime and mystery fans will find exactly what they are after in Criss Cross. It rewards viewers regardless of what else is in their watch history. Short enough to finish in one sitting, substantial enough to feel satisfying. Burt Lancaster anchors it, but the writing does the real work. If you are going to commit to one crime drama this month, make it this one.

Criss Cross was released in 1949, directed by Robert Siodmak. The full 88-minute film is available to watch now. Find exactly where it's streaming below, and TV Butler Pro makes it effortless to track your progress as you go. Just search the name, and Butler finds it instantly, tells you which service has it, and remembers exactly where you left off.