Amateur Crook

About This Movie

Amateur Crook is a curious blend of comedy and thriller from 1937, with a pretty engaging narrative. You've got Jerry Cummings, a mining engineer who's mixed up with some shady loan sharks—Crone and Jan Jaffin—which sets the stage for a frantic chase. What really stands out is his daughter Betsy, who takes on the persona of a jewel thief, Mary Layton, to outsmart those crooks. There's this delightful tension as she navigates the underworld while trying to save her dad's skin. The pacing has its ups and downs, but the practical effects and the lighthearted yet suspenseful atmosphere make it a unique watch. It’s a bit of a hidden gem in the comedy-thriller genre, for sure.

Amateur Crook is an interesting title for collectors, especially those focused on the comedy-thriller crossover from the late 1930s. It's not widely available, which adds to its allure; most prints are tough to track down. The film has seen limited release in various formats over the years, making it somewhat of a collector's curiosity. The performances, particularly from the lead, resonate with a certain charm that defines the period, giving it a distinct feel that fans of old cinema appreciate.