CS #428 Call Northside 777

CS #428
Call Northside 777

is a 1948 semi-documentary film noir directed by Henry Hathaway. The movie is celebrated for its realistic portrayal of investigative journalism and was a critical turning point for James Stewart, moving him toward more mature, cynical roles.
Core Details
Plot: Skeptical Chicago reporter P.J. McNeal (Stewart) is assigned to investigate a 11-year-old murder case after the convict's mother places a newspaper ad offering her life savings as a reward to prove his innocence.
True Story: The film is based on the 1932 murder of a Chicago policeman and the subsequent wrongful conviction of Joseph Majczek (renamed Frank Wiecek in the film, played by Richard Conte).
Innovations: It was the first Hollywood feature shot entirely on location in Chicago, utilizing landmark sites like the Wrigley Building and the Illinois Stateville Prison.