Just ran across this flick on TCM. Checked out the cast and some reviews via the IMBD app and then decided to give 'er a try.
The flick is a pleasant, light and somewhat charming cat and mouse burglar endeavor. It feels quite akin to a 70's "Mystery of the Week" made for TV movie by ABC/CBS/NBC. This feeling is cemented by the best aspect of the movie; the outstanding Henry Mancini soundtrack. Henry's work on this movie is quintessential 70's - a totally groovy melange of horns, quasi-mysterious keyboards and high in the mix bass guitar. It's spot-on.
The cast is surprisingly strong. Ryan O'Neal was in the middle of his 1970 to 1975 hot, hot, hot streak. Warren Oates was in the apex period of his strong but sadly truncated career. A good number of other classic character actors appear (including the dude that played "Julio" on "Sanford & Son" and the always reliable Ned Beatty). Jacqueline Bisset's comely presence is always welcome.
The movie is not in the slightest a gritty and dark crime offering. Instead, it is akin to a light and pleasant dessert. Could it have been better? Most certainly. Is it worth your attention if you're looking for time to kill? Definitely --> groove to the Mancini tunes.
The flick is a pleasant, light and somewhat charming cat and mouse burglar endeavor. It feels quite akin to a 70's "Mystery of the Week" made for TV movie by ABC/CBS/NBC. This feeling is cemented by the best aspect of the movie; the outstanding Henry Mancini soundtrack. Henry's work on this movie is quintessential 70's - a totally groovy melange of horns, quasi-mysterious keyboards and high in the mix bass guitar. It's spot-on.
The cast is surprisingly strong. Ryan O'Neal was in the middle of his 1970 to 1975 hot, hot, hot streak. Warren Oates was in the apex period of his strong but sadly truncated career. A good number of other classic character actors appear (including the dude that played "Julio" on "Sanford & Son" and the always reliable Ned Beatty). Jacqueline Bisset's comely presence is always welcome.
The movie is not in the slightest a gritty and dark crime offering. Instead, it is akin to a light and pleasant dessert. Could it have been better? Most certainly. Is it worth your attention if you're looking for time to kill? Definitely --> groove to the Mancini tunes.