The Big Heat (1953)

Dan Seymour: Mr. Atkins

Photos 

Quotes 

• Dave Bannion : Do you mind if I walk around the yard? Talk to your men?

  Atkins : I have to mind. When it comes to my bread and butter, I stay careful.

  Dave Bannion : It doesn't matter to you that Slim might have been mixed up in a murder, huh?

  Atkins : Sure it matters. But what can I do about it? I don't know anything.

  Dave Bannion : You're a liar.

  Atkins : You can't insult me, mister. I said I don't know anything, and that's how it stands.

  Dave Bannion : You know, I've been meeting your kind every day now for ten years - scared rabbits who never see a thing. You wouldn't stick out your big fat neck for anybody, would you?

  Atkins : That's the truth. But it's my big fat neck. So now if you're through talking, I'll get back to work.

  Dave Bannion : [approaches Atkins threateningly]  I ought to...

  Atkins : That won't change my story. Cops are paid to take risks. I'm not. You see, I've got a wife and kids, too.

  [Bannion glares at him, then walks away]