Cast
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James Mason
as Cmdr. Max Easton
George Sanders
as Sir Charles Holland
Vera Miles
as Virginia Killain
Robert Flemyng
as Cmdr. John Larkin
Oliver Johnston
as Minister
William Kendall
as Tom
Duncan Lamont
as 1st Special Branch man Gregson
Harry Andrews
as Capt. Graham
Peter Barkworth
as Sub Lt. Brown
Rachel Gurney
as Clara Holland
Martin Stephens
as John Holland
Waveney Lee
as Marcia Holland
Charles Carson
as Robert Holland
Junia Crawford
as Susan
Henry B. Longhurst
as Club Member (as Henry Longhurst)
Crew
Director
- Guy Hamilton
Writer
- Ivan Foxwell
- Guy Hamilton
Producer
- Ivan Foxwell
Reviews
CinemaSerf
James Mason is the caddish Royal Naval officer "Easton" killing time in his unchallenging job from day to day until he meets "Virginia" (Vera Miles) and suddenly he has to up his game - and his income. The former is easy enough, but the latter is a problem until he devises a cunning wheeze to appear to defect to the Soviets only to return, all innocent, and to sue the defaming newspapers. One additional fly in his ointment - the girl is already engaged to "Sir Charles Holland" (George Sanders). "Easton" goes to great and public lengths to implement his plan, but on his return he realises that there is far more going on than he anticipated - and we are unsure whom is the cat and whom is the mouse... Mason is great in this, he has the role of the amiable rogue down to a T, but Miles is less engaging and Sanders features a bit too sparingly to allow his character to get up much of an head of steam. It is amusing at times, though, and Guy Hamilton and a strong script keep the pace building nicely to an ending that is not without quirk or two.
Apr 20, 2023
Thematic Analysis
A Touch of Larceny represents a fascinating example of Comedy/Crime cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on interpersonal relationships and emotional connections. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.
Director Guy Hamilton brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1960, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of A Touch of Larceny took approximately 25 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 93 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 126 minutes long.
- The film contains approximately 966 individual shots.
- The musical score contains over 52 unique compositions.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 9 months to complete.
Historical Context
- In 1960, when this film was released:
- The Vietnam War was becoming increasingly controversial.
- The space race between the USSR and USA was at its height.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
Details
- Release Date: February 4, 1960
- Runtime: 1h 33m