Crook and the Cross

About This Movie

So here's the deal with Crook and the Cross. This 1960 comedy has a quirky charm that you don’t see in a lot of films from that era. The setup involves our protagonist, Paul Wittkowski, who’s a safecracker that finds himself disguised as a priest, which leads to some pretty funny situations. The pacing is a bit uneven at times, but it keeps you engaged with its lighthearted tone. The performances, especially from the lead, are endearing, and there’s this underlying theme of redemption that seeps through the laughs. Plus, the practical effects used in some of the heist scenes have their own kind of rough-around-the-edges appeal. It’s definitely a curiosity worth exploring.

Crook and the Cross has a somewhat elusive availability across formats, with original theatrical prints being quite rare. Collectors often seek out early VHS releases, but those are hard to come by as well. The film's niche appeal lies in its blend of comedy and redemption, which hasn’t garnered it mainstream attention, making it a hidden gem within collector circles. The scarcity and oddball premise add to its allure, attracting those who appreciate forgotten comedies from the 60s.