Bittersweet low-key ending (spoilers, of course)

At first, I thought the ending was a bit of a letdown.

What? They just let him sleep it off and they all go home?

But, as it played out, it got to me:

Paul Douglas, the hero cop - it's just another day's work. Back to your family. Life goes on, hero for the day, but, back to the grind.

Grace Kelly, sees that life does have second chances.

The young couple. A hopeful sign for Richard Basehart and his fiancee? We can only hope.

And, then the street sweeper wipes away all the drama and filth of the day.

A new day dawns.

Perfect.