Although this gangster flick received only middling reviews, Falk won heavy praise for his vicious portrayal of Abe Reles, the leader of the titular Brooklyn gang who was believed to be responsible for more than 30 murders. Although it was Falk's first major film role, he earned an Oscar nomination for best supporting actor. Falk described the role in his 2006 autobiography as the role that "made my career."
Article Source: TVGuide.com
