Is A Touch of Larceny Worth Watching?
Answer: Maybe not, A Touch of Larceny is likely a skip if you enjoy Comedy movies.
It features a runtime of 93 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to mature audiences.
A Touch of Larceny Review
Last updated: January 18, 2026
Detailed Premise & Narrative Foundations
Released in the dynamic cinematic landscape of 1960, A Touch of Larceny emerges as a significant entry in the Comedy, Crime domain. The narrative core of the film focuses on a sophisticated exploration of After falling in love with an American woman, Virginia Killain, who is engaged to another man, British Naval Commander Max Easton, hatches a plan that will get him enough money to support Virginia in the lifestyle she is accustomed to. Unlike standard genre fare, A Touch of Larceny attempts to deconstruct traditional tropes, offering a conventional take on its central themes.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Comedy is often anchored by its ensemble, and A Touch of Larceny features a noteworthy lineup led by James Mason . Supported by the likes of George Sanders and Vera Miles , the performances bring a palpable realism to the scripted words.
Performance Analysis: While the cast delivers competent and professional performances, they are occasionally hampered by a script that leans into familiar archetypes.
Final Verdict: Is it Worth Watching?
In summary, our editorial assessment of A Touch of Larceny (1960) is mixed. With an audience rating of 5.9/10, it stands as a highly recommended experience for genre enthusiasts.
A Touch of Larceny Plot Summary & Detailed Storyline
Quick Plot Summary: A Touch of Larceny is a Comedy, Crime film that brings laughter through clever writing and comedic timing, offering both entertainment and social commentary. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict and narrative structure.
A Touch of Larceny Ending Explained & Final Analysis
Ending Breakdown: A Touch of Larceny attempts to tie together its various plot elements. The finale presents its approach to comedy resolution.
The conclusion addresses the core thematic questions, offering viewers material for post-viewing discussion.
Ending Analysis:
- Narrative Resolution: The story concludes by addressing its primary narrative threads, providing closure while maintaining some ambiguity.
- Character Arcs: Character journeys reach their narrative endpoints, reflecting the film's thematic priorities.
- Thematic Payoff: The ending reinforces the comedy themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of A Touch of Larceny reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
A Touch of Larceny Real vs. Reel: Is it Based on a True Story?
A Touch of Larceny incorporates elements from real criminal cases. As a comedy, crime film, it navigates the space between factual accuracy and narrative engagement.
Historical Context
The film takes creative liberties to enhance dramatic impact. Core events maintain connection to source material while adapting for theatrical presentation.
Creative interpretation shapes the final narrative, focusing on emotional truth over strict chronology.
Accuracy Assessment: A Touch of Larceny adapts its source material for dramatic purposes. The film prioritizes thematic resonance over documentary precision.
Who Should Watch A Touch of Larceny?
Consider Watching If:
- You're a completist for Comedy films
- You're curious despite mixed reviews
- You have low expectations and want casual entertainment
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Full Cast & Crew of A Touch of Larceny
- James Mason – Cmdr. Max Easton
- George Sanders – Sir Charles Holland
- Vera Miles – Virginia Killain
- Robert Flemyng – Cmdr. John Larkin
- Oliver Johnston – Minister
Top Highlights
James MasonCmdr. Max Easton
George SandersSir Charles Holland
Vera MilesVirginia Killain
Robert FlemyngCmdr. John Larkin
Oliver JohnstonMinister
William KendallTom
Duncan Lamont1st Special Branch man Gregson
Harry AndrewsCapt. Graham
Peter BarkworthSub Lt. Brown
Rachel GurneyClara Holland
Where to Watch A Touch of Larceny Online?
Streaming Hub🎟️ Rent on
Apple TV
Amazon VideoParents Guide & Age Rating
A Touch of Larceny has not been officially rated yet. Based on its genres (Comedy, Crime), it contains mature themes, violence.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 5.9/10, and global collection metrics, A Touch of Larceny stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 1960 cinematic year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is A Touch of Larceny movie hit or flop?
A Touch of Larceny has received mixed reviews with a 5.9/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.
Is A Touch of Larceny worth watching?
A Touch of Larceny is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Comedy, Crime movies, but read reviews first.
Where can I watch A Touch of Larceny online?
A Touch of Larceny may be available for rent or purchase on digital platforms like Apple TV, Google Play, or Amazon Prime Video. Specific streaming availability can vary by country.
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Critic Reviews for A Touch of Larceny
James Mason is the caddish Royal Naval officer "Easton" killing time in his unchallenging job from day to day until he meets "Virginia" (Vera Miles) and suddenly he has to up his game - and his income. The former is easy enough, but the latter is a problem until he devises a cunning wheeze to appear to defect to the Soviets only to return, all innocent, and to sue the defaming newspapers. One additional fly in his ointment - the girl is already engaged to "Sir Charles Holland" (George Sanders). "Easton" goes to great and public lengths to implement his plan, but on his return he realises that there is far more going on than he anticipated - and we are unsure whom is the cat and whom is the mouse... Mason is great in this, he has the role of the amiable rogue down to a T, but Miles is less engaging and Sanders features a bit too sparingly to allow his character to get up much of an head of steam. It is amusing at times, though, and Guy Hamilton and a strong script keep the pace building nicely to an ending that is not without quirk or two.
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This analysis is compiled by our editorial experts using multi-source verification and audience sentiment data for maximum accuracy.
