Take the Money and Run (1969)
Directed by Woody Allen, Take the Money and Run (1969) is an American mockumentary crime comedy that follows the life of Virgil Starkwell. Parodying the style of prison documentaries, the film uses ‘archival footage’ and ‘interviews’ with people from Virgil’s past. To protect their identities, his parents don Groucho glasses during their interviews, as they are ashamed of their son. As a child, Virgil is constantly targeted by bullies who steal and destroy his glasses. Despite this, he excels on an IQ test in school. However, when he steals a fountain pen, his teacher orders the class to close their eyes while the thief returns it. In this moment, Virgil takes advantage and touches all the girls.
Now an awkward adult, Virgil attempts to rob an armored truck with a stolen gun. But during a shootout with the guards, he realizes it’s actually a cigarette lighter. Arrested and imprisoned, Virgil tries to escape using a soap-bar carved into the shape of a gun – only for it to dissolve in the rain. While on parole, Virgil’s plans to rob a nearby pet store are foiled by a gorilla who chases him off. Later in the day, he crosses paths with Louise in the park. He immediately realizes that he is deeply in love with her and even considers marrying her. However, after spending some time together, he gives up any thoughts of stealing from her when she catches his eye. Instead, he resorts to swiping coins from a gumball machine, reminiscent of a scene from Cool Hand Luke, to pay for their dinner with small change.
Date of download: 2015-11-11T17:22:34+00:00
Cast:  Woody AllenVirgil Starkwell  Janet MargolinLouise |
Directed by Woody Allen, Take the Money and Run (1969) is an American mockumentary crime comedy that follows the life of Virgil Starkwell. Parodying the style of prison documentaries, the film uses ‘archival footage’ and ‘interviews’ with people from Virgil’s past. To protect their identities, his parents don Groucho glasses during their interviews, as they are ashamed of their son. As a child, Virgil is constantly targeted by bullies who steal and destroy his glasses. Despite this, he excels on an IQ test in school. However, when he steals a fountain pen, his teacher orders the class to close their eyes while the thief returns it. In this moment, Virgil takes advantage and touches all the girls.
Now an awkward adult, Virgil attempts to rob an armored truck with a stolen gun. But during a shootout with the guards, he realizes it’s actually a cigarette lighter. Arrested and imprisoned, Virgil tries to escape using a soap-bar carved into the shape of a gun – only for it to dissolve in the rain. While on parole, Virgil’s plans to rob a nearby pet store are foiled by a gorilla who chases him off. Later in the day, he crosses paths with Louise in the park. He immediately realizes that he is deeply in love with her and even considers marrying her. However, after spending some time together, he gives up any thoughts of stealing from her when she catches his eye. Instead, he resorts to swiping coins from a gumball machine, reminiscent of a scene from Cool Hand Luke, to pay for their dinner with small change.
