Take the Money and Run (1969) Movie Review: Where to Watch Online
Take the Money and Run (1969) is a classic comedy film written and directed by Woody Allen. This early entry into Allen’s filmography showcases his signature blend of satire and absurdity, focusing on the life of a bumbling bank robber. Starring Woody Allen, as well as co-stars such as Louise Lasser and Michael Murphy, the film is a hilarious and insightful take on the criminal genre.
Plot Summary
Take the Money and Run follows the story of Virgil Starkwell (Woody Allen), a small-time crook with a penchant for getting caught. The film presents Starkwell’s life as a series of humorous misadventures and failed attempts at criminal success. From his inept robberies to his ill-fated prison escape, Starkwell’s criminal career is a comical disaster.
The film is presented in a mockumentary style, featuring “interviews” with various characters who have been affected by Starkwell’s criminal activities. These interviews, combined with flashbacks and narrated segments, provide a satirical look at Starkwell’s life and his inability to succeed in his criminal endeavors.
Starkwell’s story includes a series of botched heists, romantic entanglements, and interactions with law enforcement, all of which are depicted with Woody Allen’s trademark wit and absurdity. The film ends with Starkwell’s continued failures and ultimate downfall, reinforcing the comedic tone throughout.
Critical Reception
Take the Money and Run received positive reviews for its humor and Woody Allen’s performance. It is considered a classic example of Allen’s early work and an important film in the evolution of the modern comedy genre.
Strengths:
- Humor and Satire: The film’s mockumentary style and satirical take on the criminal genre were praised for their originality and comedic effectiveness. Woody Allen’s humor shines through in the film’s dialogue and scenarios.
- Performance: Woody Allen’s performance as Virgil Starkwell is central to the film’s success. His comedic timing and portrayal of the bumbling crook contribute significantly to the film’s humor.
- Innovative Style: The use of a mockumentary format was innovative for its time, providing a fresh perspective on the heist genre and contributing to the film’s unique appeal.
Weaknesses:
- Pacing: Some critics noted that the film’s pacing could be uneven, with certain segments dragging compared to the more engaging comedic scenes.
- Character Development: The film focuses primarily on comedic situations rather than deep character development, which may limit the emotional connection some viewers have with the characters.
Overall, Take the Money and Run is celebrated for its inventive approach to comedy and Woody Allen’s distinctive style. It remains a notable entry in Allen’s filmography and a classic example of his early comedic work.
Themes and Analysis
Take the Money and Run explores several themes through its comedic lens:
- Failure and Absurdity: The film highlights the absurdity of Virgil Starkwell’s criminal endeavors, focusing on his repeated failures and the comedic aspects of his ineptitude. This theme underscores the film’s satirical tone.
- Crime and Punishment: By portraying Starkwell’s life as a series of humorous misadventures, the film satirizes the concept of crime and punishment, suggesting that criminal success is often more about luck and less about skill.
- Mockumentary Style: The film’s use of a mockumentary format serves to parody the traditional crime genre, providing a humorous and self-aware take on the subject matter.
- Individual vs. System: The film also touches on the idea of the individual struggling against a larger system, with Starkwell’s personal failures highlighting the broader inefficacy of his criminal pursuits.
Where to Watch Take the Money and Run Online
If you’re interested in watching Take the Money and Run (1969), here are some options:
1. Streaming Services
- Hulu: Take the Money and Run may be available for streaming on Hulu. Check the platform’s catalog for current availability.
- Amazon Prime Video: The film may also be available on Amazon Prime Video as part of their streaming library.
2. Rental/Purchase Services
- Amazon Video: You can rent or purchase Take the Money and Run on Amazon Video. Rental prices typically start around $3.99, with purchase options available for approximately $12.99.
- Google Play Movies & TV: Google Play offers rental and purchase options for Take the Money and Run. Rentals generally cost around $3.99, while purchasing the film starts at about $12.99.
- Apple iTunes: Take the Money and Run is available for rental or purchase on Apple iTunes. Rentals usually cost about $3.99, and purchasing the film generally costs $12.99.
- Vudu: Vudu provides rental and purchase options for Take the Money and Run. Rental prices are similar to other platforms, starting around $3.99, and purchasing the film generally costs about $12.99.
Conclusion
Take the Money and Run (1969) is a classic Woody Allen comedy that offers a satirical and humorous take on the crime genre. With its innovative mockumentary style and Allen’s comedic performance, the film provides a unique and entertaining viewing experience. Whether you’re a fan of Allen’s early work or simply enjoy a clever comedy, Take the Money and Run remains a standout example of 1960s comedy.
With various streaming and rental options available, accessing this film is convenient, allowing you to experience its classic humor at your leisure.
