Watch Amateur Crook

Amateur Crook is a thrilling crime film released in 1937, directed by Sam Newfield and starring Bruce Bennett, Joan Barclay, and Monte Blue. Set against the backdrop of the bustling city streets, this movie takes viewers on a fast-paced journey filled with suspense, deception, and unexpected twists. The story revolves around Jimmy Reeves (Bruce Bennett), a charismatic and street-smart young man who dreams of making it big as a professional crook. However, Jimmy's criminal aspirations are put on hold when he falls in love with Ann Powell (Joan Barclay), a beautiful and kind-hearted woman. Determined to start a new life, Jimmy turns his back on his criminal past and decides to walk the straight and narrow.

Despite his genuine intentions, fate has other plans for Jimmy. One day, he discovers a briefcase filled with stolen money, inadvertently thrusting him back into a treacherous criminal underworld. Realizing the danger he's now facing, Jimmy must devise a plan to protect himself and the woman he loves.

As Jimmy struggles to unravel the mystery behind the stolen money, he becomes entangled with a notorious gangster named Charles Ingram (Monte Blue). Ingram, the mastermind behind the theft, is a ruthless and cunning criminal known for his violent methods. With the stakes escalating, Jimmy finds himself in a race against time to outsmart Ingram and his henchmen before they catch up to him.

Throughout the film, audiences are treated to a gripping and fast-paced narrative filled with unexpected plot twists. Bruce Bennett delivers a captivating performance as the conflicted Jimmy, effortlessly portraying the character's transformation from a naive dreamer to a resourceful and streetwise individual. His portrayal is particularly notable for the depth he lends to Jimmy's struggles with his own moral compass.

Joan Barclay shines as Ann Powell, offering a strong and compassionate presence. Her on-screen chemistry with Bennett adds an authentic and heartwarming touch to the film, allowing their relationship to stand as a focal point amidst the chaos.

Monte Blue's performance as the menacing Charles Ingram is truly memorable. With his commanding presence and piercing gaze, Blue brings an air of malice to the character, making him a formidable adversary for Jimmy. Ingram's relentless pursuit creates a constant sense of tension and danger, effectively driving the film forward.

The cinematography of Amateur Crook expertly captures the essence of the era, highlighting the gritty and atmospheric elements of both the urban cityscape and various clandestine locations. The use of chiaroscuro lighting accentuates the shadows and adds to the overall noir ambiance.

In addition to its engaging plot and strong performances, Amateur Crook also explores themes of redemption, love, and personal growth. Through Jimmy's journey, the film showcases the power of second chances and the complexities of navigating a world filled with moral ambiguity.

Overall, Amateur Crook is a riveting crime film from 1937 that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats until the very end. With its compelling narrative, impressive performances, and atmospheric cinematography, the movie stands as a classic example of the thrilling crime genre of its time.

Amateur Crook is a 2010 comedy with a runtime of 58 minutes. It has received mostly poor reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.0.