Watch Dangerous Davies

Dangerous Davies is a 1981 British comedy-drama film directed by Val Guest and based on the novel "Dangerous Davies: The Last Detective" by Leslie Thomas. The film stars Bernard Cribbins as Davies, a bumbling and unassuming police constable who is relegated to the lowest level of the detective squad. The film follows Davies as he tries to prove his worth as a detective, despite his lack of experience and the scorn of his colleagues. He is given a chance to prove himself when he is tasked with investigating a series of burglaries in a wealthy London suburb. With the help of his loyal and streetwise sidekick Mod (played by Jemima Rooper), Davies sets out to catch the thieves and win the respect of his fellow officers.

Throughout the film, Davies struggles to balance his personal and professional life. He is devoted to his wife Julie (played by Belinda Sinclair) and his young daughter, but his job often takes him away from them. He also faces constant criticism from his superiors, who constantly remind him of his mistakes and inadequacies.

One of the highlights of the film is the performance of Bernard Cribbins as Davies. He brings a charming and earnest quality to the character, making him both endearing and relatable. Despite his flaws and shortcomings, Davies is a likable character who viewers will root for throughout the film.

The supporting cast also delivers strong performances. Bill Maynard plays Chief Inspector Yardbird, Davies' gruff and dismissive boss. Joss Ackland portrays Charlie Hungerford, a wealthy businessman who becomes involved in Davies' investigation. Both actors bring depth and nuance to their roles, adding layers of complexity to the story.

The film's cinematography is notable as well. Director Val Guest makes excellent use of the London locations, capturing the city's gritty and colorful atmosphere. He also incorporates a number of creative camera angles and techniques, adding visual interest to the film.

Overall, Dangerous Davies is an enjoyable and entertaining film that will appeal to fans of crime dramas and comedies alike. It is a lighthearted and witty take on the detective genre, with a memorable protagonist and a strong supporting cast. While it may not be a groundbreaking or revolutionary film, it is a solid piece of cinema that is well worth watching.