Amateur Crook

Amateur Crook is a dramatic adventure spectacle from 1937 that merges elements of crime, romance, drama, and adventure, giving an enticing narrative that catches the audience's attention. Astoundingly directed by Sam Katzman, the movie stars Bruce Bennett, Joan Barclay, and Monte Blue in the lead roles, delivering outstanding performances that are both captivating and resonant.

Bannister Merwin (played by Bruce Bennett) is the main protagonist of the story. Bennett's portrayal of this witty, sly yet incredibly charismatic character is truly noteworthy. Merwin is not your usual protagonist; he's an insurance investigator with a heart that tilts towards justice and integrity. However, circumstances push him into a seemingly dubious path, morphing him into an 'amateur crook' – but for all the right reasons. The intensity and complexity of his journey from lawful to outlaw embrace the core of this period's crime adventure genre in a unique way.

Bennett's most intriguing relationship throughout the movie is with Judy Parker, portrayed by Joan Barclay. Judy is the love interest of Merwin, and their chemistry displays an infective love story. Barclay delivers a striking performance as Judy - a firm, spirited, and audacious woman in love with Merwin. Their journey together, filled with emotional nuances, forms a significant part of the narrative, bringing a sense of romance into the otherwise crime-centered plot.

Monte Blue gets into the role of J. Frothingham Waterbury, an eccentric millionaire with a strong presence and an essential role in the storyline. Blue's performance offers a unique contrast against Bennett's and adds a different layer to the narrative.

Without giving away too much, the plot of Amateur Crook unfolds as Merwin, working as an investigator, stumbles upon a complicated case revolving around an expensive diamond necklace owned by Waterbury. A series of unpredictable events lead Merwin into assuming an unlawful path, becoming an unlikely crook. The narrative follows him as he attempts to reconcile with his chosen path while unveiling the mystery linked to the diamond necklace. His actions and decisions heighten the drama, offering many cliffhangers and high-intensity scenes that leave the viewers on the edge of their seats.

The film brilliantly utilizes the setting of 1930s America, complete with its distinctive fashion, cultural norms, and societal constructs. The gritty and captivating environment harmonizes with the storyline, accentuating the thrill and suspense of the plot. Expressive cinematracks perfectly echo each scene's mood, adding depth to the narrative and enhancing the overall cinematic experience. Superior camera work and editing further extenuate the film's innovative storytelling technique and makes the bold performances of the stars stand out.

Amateur Crook examines themes of morality, lawfulness, and the blurry lines between right and wrong, making viewers question and ponder throughout the film. This thematic exploration is beautifully accentuated by the narrative's romance and adventure aspects, leading to a gratifying cinematic experience.

The dynamic characters, intriguing plot, articulate direction, and compelling performances make Amateur Crook a bit of an unsung classic. Despite being over 80 years old, the film's central themes and thrilling narrative remain relevant and enjoyable to this day, making it a must-watch for any classic crime thriller aficionado. Amateur Crook is a compelling tale that promises an adventure the audience isn't likely to forget in a hurry.