Take the Money and Run 1969
"crime lives!"
In Woody Allen's breakout comedy classic *Take the Money and Run (1969)*, the hilarious yet doomed Virgil Starkwell dreams of becoming a legendary bank robber.
Director: Woody Allen
Cast
Woody Allen
Virgil Starkwell
Janet Margolin
Louise
Marcel Hillaire
Fritz
Jacquelyn Hyde
Miss Blair
Lonny Chapman
Jake - Convict
Jan Merlin
Al - Bank Robber
James Anderson
Chain Gang Warden
Howard Storm
Fred
Mark Gordon
Vince
Micil Murphy
Frank
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Take the Money and Run (1969) about?
The film follows Virgil Starkwell, an aspiring bank robber whose incompetence turns every heist into a disaster. Shot through with Woody Allen's signature humor, it's a mockumentary-style romp that mocks the very idea of a successful criminal career.
Who directed Take the Money and Run?
Woody Allen directed this 1969 comedy, marking one of his earliest collaborations with his signature satirical style.
Who stars in Take the Money and Run?
The film stars Woody Allen as Virgil Starkwell, alongside Janet Margolin as his love interest and Marcel Hillaire as a key authority figure.
Is Take the Money and Run (1969) worth watching?
Absolutely. As a foundational work in Woody Allen's career, it blends sharp satire with absurdist humor, making it a must-watch for fans of classic comedy. Its clever subversion of crime tropes feels timeless, even if the IMDb rating is unrated.
How long is Take the Money and Run?
The film runs 85 minutes, making it a brisk, laugh-packed experience perfect for a quick sit-down.
🎥 Trailer
About Take the Money and Run (1969) — Woody Allen's hilarious satire of a bumbling criminal's dreams
In Woody Allen's breakout comedy classic *Take the Money and Run (1969)*, the hilarious yet doomed Virgil Starkwell dreams of becoming a legendary bank robber. But with a knack for self-sabotage and an alarming lack of criminal acumen, his heists spiral into absurd fiascos that leave audiences in stitches. Shot in mockumentary style with Allen's signature wit, the film blends crime tropes with the director's signature neurotic charm, creating a satire that feels as fresh today as it did over five decades ago.
Virgil's misadventures—from bumbling getaways to jailbreaks gone wrong—highlight the futility of chasing notoriety through ineptitude. Janet Margolin co-stars as his long-suffering love interest, adding emotional depth to the chaos, while Marcel Hillaire's stern authority figures serve as Virgil's nemeses. A sharp critique of ambition without talent, the movie revels in its own ridiculousness while delivering clever social commentary beneath the laughs.
