
The Great Bank Hoax 1978
"God Bless America. But grab what you can, just in case."
In 1978, Joseph Jacoby's offbeat comedy *The Great Bank Hoax* delivers a satirical twist on small-town morals, where greed becomes a communal affair.
Director: Joseph Jacoby
Cast








Frequently Asked Questions
What is The Great Bank Hoax (1978) about?
This 1978 comedy follows a small-town community that uncovers its bank's embezzlement and, rather than report it, decides to steal the money themselves. The film turns a traditional heist story on its head, turning local pillars of society into reluctant outlaws.
Who directed The Great Bank Hoax?
Joseph Jacoby directed *The Great Bank Hoax* (1978), a film that blends comedy with sharp social satire.
Who stars in The Great Bank Hoax?
The film stars Richard Basehart, Ned Beatty, Burgess Meredith, Michael Murphy, and Paul Sand in key roles.
Is The Great Bank Hoax (1978) worth watching?
While unrated on IMDb, *The Great Bank Hoax* offers a unique blend of dark humor and social commentary that fans of 1970s comedies may find refreshing. Its offbeat premise and strong cast make it a hidden gem worth exploring for those who enjoy unconventional storytelling.
How long is The Great Bank Hoax?
The Great Bank Hoax runs for 87 minutes.
About The Great Bank Hoax (1978) — A Dark Comedy About Stealing from the Thieves
In 1978, Joseph Jacoby's offbeat comedy *The Great Bank Hoax* delivers a satirical twist on small-town morals, where greed becomes a communal affair. When the upstanding citizens of a quiet American town uncover the embezzlement by their bank's leaders, they don't just protest—they decide to take matters into their own hands by robbing the very institution meant to serve them. Richard Basehart, Ned Beatty, and Burgess Meredith lead a cast of eccentric locals who band together in this darkly humorous tale of financial opportunism. With sharp dialogue and a tone that balances cynicism with heart, the film explores themes of justice, corruption, and the American Dream turned upside down.
Set against the backdrop of a 1970s America grappling with economic uncertainty, *The Great Bank Hoax* blends slapstick chaos with biting social commentary. The story unfolds like a twisted heist film where the criminals are the victims—and the victims are the criminals. Jacoby's direction keeps the energy high while probing the moral flexibility of ordinary people when faced with temptation. A cult classic for fans of quirky, subversive humor, this comedy challenges expectations and leaves audiences questioning who the real outlaws are.