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Crime Cult Classic

Bank heists, double-crosses, and a gangland kidnapping set the stakes in this British crime thriller.

THE CHALLENGE

The fabulous Jayne. A terrific draw in any situation !

1960 · 1h 41m · NR · Crime / Drama / Thriller · IMDB TMDB

A gang leader dumps her criminal boyfriend when he is convicted of robbery, but he recovers the stolen loot once he's released. In retaliation, the gang kidnaps his son and demands the money as ransom.

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Quick Answer
What is The Challenge about?

The Challenge is a 1960 United Kingdom crime, drama, and thriller film directed by John Gilling about a gang of robbers whose ex-leader faces police and criminal threats after his release from prison, culminating in the kidnapping of his son over hidden loot.

Synopsis

Billie and Kristy lead a gang of armed robbers who steal from banks, armoured cars, and the like. When Billie's lover, Jim, gets caught by the police after stashing a large amount of money, they wait for him to get out of jail. He does and has to deal with both the police and his ex-gang as they both need him to get what they want. Things become more complicated when Kristy kidnaps Jim's son and threatens to kill him if Jim doesn't come up with the buried loot.
Details & Specs
Director
John Gilling
Writer
John Gilling
Release
1960
Runtime
1h 41m
Country
United Kingdom
Language
English
Also Known As
It Takes a Thief, Original title: The Challenge

Why Cult

Jayne Mansfield in London

See Hollywood bombshell Jayne Mansfield as Billie, heading up a British gang of bank robbers in a rare UK-set role.

Criminal Gang Drama

Armed robberies, kidnappings, and a fight for hidden loot deliver classic crime thrills and betrayals.

Offbeat British Noir Elements

From saxophones and model trains to amusement park set pieces, the film weaves in quirky details that set it apart from typical heist fare.

John Gilling Direction

Helmed by genre specialist John Gilling, known for crafting taut, suspenseful narratives.

Questions from the Vault

What is The Challenge about? +

The Challenge centers on a gang of robbers whose leader is released from prison and must contend with both the police and his former gang, leading to a tense showdown over stolen money and a kidnapping.

When was The Challenge released? +

The Challenge was released in 1960.

Who directed The Challenge? +

The Challenge was directed by John Gilling.

How long is The Challenge? +

The Challenge has a runtime of 101 minutes.

What genre is The Challenge? +

The Challenge is a crime, drama, and thriller film.

Where can I watch The Challenge? +

The Challenge is available to stream on SassyFlix.