Born in 1922 in Philadelphia, Paul Wendkos emerged as a distinctive voice in cult cinema, directing films that blend suspense and drama. His work on The Burglar (1957) showcased his innovative camera techniques, which caught the attention of major studios. Wendkos continued to explore complex narratives in Fear No Evil (1969) and Cannon for Cordoba (1970), where he deftly navigated themes of morality and conflict. His later projects, including The Legend of Lizzie Borden (1975) and Special Delivery (1976), further solidified his status as a director who brought a unique flair to genre storytelling.
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.