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Crime Cult Classic

A Philadelphia heist spins out of control in this noir-tinged crime drama.

THE BURGLAR

A trail of perfume... and violence!

1957 · 01:30:00 · NR · Crime / Drama / Thriller · IMDB TMDB

A thief, his half sister and his gang steal a diamond necklace from a Philadelphia mansion.

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Quick Answer
What is The Burglar about?

The Burglar is a 1957 United States crime, drama, and thriller film directed by Paul Wendkos about a thief and his gang who steal a diamond necklace from a Philadelphia mansion, only to face complications afterward.

The SassyFlix Take

Jayne Mansfield trades in the glamour for grit as Gladden, helping Dan Duryea's crew pull off a heist that’s slick, sultry, and steeped in classic film noir atmosphere. Expect Atlantic City seedy glamour, double-crosses, and a safecracking sequence that’s as tense as it is stylish.
From the Vault

Safecrackers, beach bikinis, and a Steinway grand—Philadelphia never looked so shady.

Why Cult

Film Noir Aesthetic

Crime, drama, and thriller blend with a moody noir style, making every scene as shadowy as its characters’ motives.

Jayne Mansfield Role

Jayne Mansfield stands out as Gladden, the alluring accomplice whose involvement in the heist plot is anything but ornamental.

Philadelphia Heist Setting

The action unfolds in Philadelphia and Atlantic City, giving the film a gritty urban backdrop for its criminal exploits.

Psychotronic Pedigree

Tagged as a 'Psychotronic Film,' this is cult cinema with oddball flourishes—from unconventional characters to unexpected plot twists.

Synopsis

Burglar Nat Harbin and his two associates set their sights on wealthy spiritualist Sister Sarah, who has inherited a fortune -- including a renowned emerald necklace -- from a Philadelphia financier. Using Nat's female ward, Gladden, to pose as an admirer and case the mansion where the woman lives, they set up a perfect break-in. Things get complicated afterwards.
Details & Specs
Director
Paul Wendkos
Writer
David Goodis
Release
1957
Runtime
1h 30m
Country
United States of America
Language
English
Also Known As
Provalnik, Honor de ladrón, Ein Toter lügt nicht, Original title: The Burglar

Themes & Keywords

Flashback Blonde Based On Novel Beach Bikini Sexual Attraction Mansion Cult Held At Gunpoint Sexual Desire Double Cross Sunbathing Seductive Woman Pervert Big Breasts Woman Wears A Bikini

Frequently Asked Questions

What is The Burglar about? +

The Burglar is about a thief, his half sister, and his gang who steal a diamond necklace from a Philadelphia mansion, leading to unforeseen complications.

When was The Burglar released? +

The Burglar was released in 1957.

Who directed The Burglar? +

The Burglar was directed by Paul Wendkos.

How long is The Burglar? +

The Burglar has a runtime of 90 minutes.

What genre is The Burglar? +

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

Where can I watch The Burglar? +

The Burglar is available for streaming on SassyFlix.