St. Benny the Dip

St. Benny the Dip is a 1951 film directed by Edgar G. Ulmer, starring Dick Haymes, Nina Foch, and Roland Young. Woven with an undertone of comedy and drama, the film narrates a rather unusual tale that converts the screens to the wild streets of New York.

The plot revolves around three small-time conmen, Benny (Dick Haymes), Monk (Lionel Stander), and Matthew (Roland Young), who discovered that they are now wanted by the police. In an attempt to escape, they find themselves in a desolate church and, due to a series of fortuitous circumstances, they are mistaken for the church's missionaries expected from Texas. The trio, seeing an opportunity and lacking other means to evade capture, accept their newfound roles as religious individuals, not realizing fully that their life of scamming would be put to the stern test of moralities.

Benny, being suave and charming, takes up the role of the head priest, Father "Junket" Benny; the rough, robust Monk becomes “Father Tim,” while the elder statesman Matthew assumes the role of “Father Mack.” This adaptation of religious hood provides a delightfully comedic entre as the trio, known for their dubious exploits, find themselves in the most unlikely of situations, trying their best to live up to their pretend roles.

As they continue their act, they encounter an array of characters that challenge their original intent. They get involved with local community affairs and are caught in a web of responsibility, which until now, was alien territory for them. Most notably, they meet the lovely singer, Linda (Nina Foch), who is in a tense relationship with her crooked manager. At this juncture, the comic storyline entertains undercurrents of a blossoming romance between Benny and Linda, further adding complexities to the increasing cracks in Benny's facade.

While the plot moves ahead from comedic misadventures to emotional turmoil, it presents the audience with an unconventional gaze towards organized religion and the concept of redemption. It expertly balances the tension between the trio's past lives and their present, in which they are compelled to deal with social issues more sincerely than they had ever intended.

Dick Haymes, as Benny, shines through with his suave and charismatic performance. His character paints a portrait of transformation that is both believable and relatable. Nina Foch, as Linda, brings forth, with her performance, the much-needed love interest that adds to the drama's vigor.

Roland Young, as Matthew, serves humorous one-liners and wisdom with equal ease, keeping the audience entertained throughout, while Lionel Stander, as Monk, bridges the contrast between the rough exterior and a heart capable of kindness and change flawlessly.

The film, St. Benny the Dip, shot in black and white, may feel like a simple conman story on the surface. But when navigated deeper, it offers a nuanced commentary on identity, redemption, and love. It propounds the idea that it is never too late to change and do right by society, especially when one least expects it. The movie highlights the essence of human transformation, a virtue that remains relevant even today.

Led by an all-star cast and a distinguished director and filled with lighthearted humor, clever dialogues, a pinch of emotional depth, and an unexpected take on faith and redemption, St. Benny the Dip takes its audience on an enjoyable roller coaster ride. It presents a distinctive mix of comedy and drama packaged with performances that are both compelling and delightful. The film serves as a timeless endeavor into the human capacity for change and the power of unexpected circumstances, making it a must-watch for lovers of classic cinema.