Dan Duryea, born in 1907 in White Plains, New York, made his mark as a versatile actor in film and stage. He transitioned to Hollywood in 1940, establishing a reputation for playing complex characters, often embodying the archetypal villain. In Winchester '73 (1950), he delivers a memorable performance as a charismatic antagonist, while in The Burglar (1957), his portrayal adds depth to the film's noir sensibilities. Duryea's ability to blend charm with menace solidified his cult status, making him a significant figure in the landscape of classic cinema.
The Burglar
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.