Surf, swimsuits, and the most audacious jewel heist of the 20th century.
MURPH THE SURF
The True Story of Two Miami Playboys Who Liked the Girls and the Good Life Enough to Turn Con Men and Pull Off the Biggest Job in History! And the Cops Knew It, But Couldn't Do a Thing About It!
Based on a true story, details the daring 1964 theft of the J.P. Morgan jewel collection from New York's American Museum of Natural History. Called the "Greatest Jewel Heist of the 20th Century," the robbers took 22 precious gems, including the Star of India, the 100.32-carat de Long Ruby and the 16.25-carat Eagle Diamond, stones so famous they would be impossible to sell.
Quick Answer
Murph the Surf is a 1975 American comedy-crime drama directed by Marvin J. Chomsky about the daring 1964 theft of the J.P. Morgan jewel collection from New York’s American Museum of Natural History.
Programmer's Pick
Who knew the American Museum of Natural History could be the scene of such swimsuit-clad mischief? Murph the Surf delivers true crime by way of speedboats, bikinis, and a sapphire so big it has its own legend.
— SassyFlix Programmer
Overview
Why This Matters
This film dramatizes the real-life jewel heist by Jack Roland Murphy, whose story was notable enough to be revisited decades later by The New York Times, highlighting its enduring cultural intrigue.
Cast & Crew
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Why Cult
Based on the real 1964 theft dubbed the 'Greatest Jewel Heist of the 20th Century,' this film brings infamous headlines to life.
Features legendary stones like the Star of India, de Long Ruby, and the never-recovered Eagle Diamond.
With jewel thieves in swimsuits, beach scenes, and a dash of beefcake, the film mixes high crime with sun-soaked fun.
Balances drama and comedy, offering a playful take on a notorious heist with a cast of colorful characters.
Scene Gallery
Threat File
Theft of famous jewels
Audacious jewel heist
Priceless gems stolen from museum
New York's American Museum of Natural History
Questions from the Vault
When was Murph the Surf released? +
Murph the Surf was released in 1975.
Who directed Murph the Surf? +
Murph the Surf was directed by Marvin J. Chomsky.
How long is Murph the Surf? +
Murph the Surf has a runtime of 101 minutes.
What genre is Murph the Surf? +
Murph the Surf is a comedy, crime, and drama film.
Where can I watch Murph the Surf? +
Murph the Surf is available to stream on SassyFlix.
