The film, starring James Whitmore and John Cassavetes, also featured actor Sal Mineo, who had previously appeared in Rebel Without a Cause.

Malcolm Atterbury, Virginia Gregg, and future director Mark Rydell had prominent roles.

An effort is made by Wagner to understand the boys rather than be angry with them, and Richie tells him of Frankie's plans to commit a murder.

Richie stops his brother just-in-time, but ends up with a knife held to his throat by angry Frankie, while McAllister and other two run off, as the intended victim yells for help.

Wagner appears due to the commotion, and watches as Frankie finally comes to his senses and lets his brother go.