While the double tides of "Ocean's Eleven" (1960), (2001), rolled in and before and after the affairs of Thomas Crown, (1968), (1999), filmmakers proved crime does pay with many flickering jewels. A cheerful one, "Topkapi" (1964), was especially influential with its detailed museum break-in, yet, sadly, time has robbed the movie's laughs. Don't be alarmed, simply nab these hilarious heists instead.
1. "The Pink Panther" (1964)
A notorious gem thief (David Niven) charms his way to snatch the world's most spectacular diamond. Lukewarm on the trail, the deliciously bumbling Inspector Clouseau (Peter Sellers) in his first screen case. Writer-director Blake Edwards envelops sophistication around the cartoonish silliness in a still sparkly entertainment, my darling. With Robert Wagner and Capucine as Mrs. Clouseau.
2. "Take the Money and Run" (1969)
Virgil Starkwell's entire life is a caper. "Before he is 25-years-old, he will be wanted by police in six states for assault, armed robbery, and illegal possession of a wart." Writer-director-star Woody Allen examines the master bungler in an explosively funny documentary. There's one last bank to rob, and he's got a "gub." Also nice: Woody's "Small Time Crooks" (2000), half caper, half tuff cookie.3. "A Fish Called Wanda" (1988)
The diamond heist opens the story, then comes dessert, as four partners in crime maneuver to cheat each other out of their shares. A strong ensemble cast headed by Kevin Kline in his Oscar-winning role, plus Michael Palin and Jamie Lee Curtis, who seduces a henpecked barrister, John Cleese, into her scheme. Cleese's screenplay delivers loud laughs to those not offended by doses of tastelessness.4. "How to Steal a Million" (1966)
Audrey Hepburn and Peter O'Toole make an intricate, pricey withdrawal from a Paris art museum -- at least, that's the proposal. Director William Wyler ("Ben-Hur") adds gloss to a stylish, witty romance which, criminally speaking, takes a few pages from the "Topkapi" play book. Charles Boyer, Eli Wallach, and Hugh Griffith are featured. When released, the film was noted for its high fashion.5. "To Catch a Thief" (1955)
Alfred Hitchcock's sunny concoction unfolds on the French Riviera, where, in order to clear his name, a retired cat burglar (Cary Grant) must foil an impersonator's caper. Suspenseful, serious tale becomes a frothy romance whenever fireworks arrive in the shape of Grace Kelly. The script by John Michael Hayes provides crisp dialogue for the stars, a teasingly elegant pleasure.6. "Kelly's Heroes" (1970)
A full-tilt World War II adventure takes a daring detour. Clint Eastwood and Telly Savalas enlist soldiers to swipe gold from behind enemy lines. Jocular shenanigans accompany the mission, largely provided by caustic Don Rickles and non sequitur hippie Donald Sutherland. There's something poetic about bombing Rickles in an outhouse, which also provides the yarn's funniest line.7. "Going in Style" (1979)
Aged George Burns, Art Carney and Lee Strasberg plot a bank job to relieve boredom. "There are laughs," says "Chicago Reader," "but the prevalent tone is one of discreet compassion, without condescension or sanctimony. Burns, in particular, is a revelation: deprived of his cigar and its attendant shtick, he creates a character of great toughness and determination, fighting against time and memory."8. "Bottle Rocket" (1996)
Pal nuthouse parolees (Owen and Luke Wilson) embark on their prepared 75-year crime plan, beginning with a bold robbery at Mom's house and working themselves up until they can sign-on for major scores with a crime boss/lawn care guru (James Caan). Wes Anderson ("Rushmore") directed these slacker screw-ups from the quirky script he wrote with Owen Wilson.9. "The Hot Rock" (1972)
The Robert Redford gang blueprints a lucrative jewel theft, only nothing goes according to the butterfingers' plans. Directed by Peter Yates ("Bullitt") from Donald Westlake's novel. Followed by a sequel, "Bank Shot" (1974), with George C. Scott snatching a bank -- foundation and all! Redford's unrelated caper, "Sneakers" (1992), is more dramatic, although it does drive to a humorous climax.10. "Fitzwilly" (1967)
The butler does it -- along with the entire staff of servants. By thievery, including an elaborate Christmas Eve heist at Gimbel's department store, devoted employees protect a penniless dowager's wealthy lifestyle. The Dick Van Dyke comedy could've stolen a few more gags, but it's a clever idea twisted into a likeable amusement. Barbara Feldon's ("Get Smart") big screen debut.
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