Is Larceny Worth Watching?
Answer: Maybe not, Larceny is likely a skip if you enjoy Drama movies.
It features a runtime of 89 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to mature audiences.
Larceny Review
Last updated: January 18, 2026
Detailed Premise & Narrative Foundations
Released in the dynamic cinematic landscape of 1948, Larceny emerges as a significant entry in the Drama, Crime domain. The narrative core of the film focuses on a sophisticated exploration of Rick Mason is the no-good lowdown rat who tries to capitalize on postwar patriotism and grief. Unlike standard genre fare, Larceny attempts to deconstruct traditional tropes, offering a conventional take on its central themes.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Drama is often anchored by its ensemble, and Larceny features a noteworthy lineup led by John Payne . Supported by the likes of Joan Caulfield and Dan Duryea , 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 Larceny (1948) is mixed. With an audience rating of 5.8/10, it stands as a highly recommended experience for genre enthusiasts.
Larceny Plot Summary & Detailed Storyline
Quick Plot Summary: Larceny is a Drama, Crime film that explores complex human emotions and relationships through nuanced character development. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict and narrative structure.
Larceny Ending Explained & Final Analysis
Ending Breakdown: Larceny attempts to tie together its various plot elements. The finale presents its approach to drama resolution.
The emotional climax centers on character transformation, 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 drama themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of Larceny reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Larceny Real vs. Reel: Is it Based on a True Story?
Larceny incorporates elements from real criminal cases. As a drama, 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: Larceny adapts its source material for dramatic purposes. The film prioritizes thematic resonance over documentary precision.
Who Should Watch Larceny?
Consider Watching If:
- You're a completist for Drama films
- You're curious despite mixed reviews
- You have low expectations and want casual entertainment
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Full Cast & Crew of Larceny
- John Payne – Rick Mason
- Joan Caulfield – Deborah Owens Clark
- Dan Duryea – Silky Randall
- Shelley Winters – Tory
- Dorothy Hart – Madeline
Top Highlights
John PayneRick Mason
Joan CaulfieldDeborah Owens Clark
Dan DuryeaSilky Randall
Shelley WintersTory
Dorothy HartMadeline
Richard RoberMax
Dan O'HerlihyDuke
Nicholas JoyWalter Vanderline
Percy HeltonCharlie Jordan
Walter GreazaMr. Owens
Where to Watch Larceny Online?
Streaming Hub🎟️ Rent on
Amazon Video
Apple TV
Google Play Movies
YouTube
Fandango At Home🏷️ Buy on
Amazon VideoApple TVGoogle Play MoviesYouTubeFandango At HomeParents Guide & Age Rating
Larceny is rated NR. Parents should be aware that it contains mature themes, violence.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 5.8/10, and global collection metrics, Larceny stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 1948 cinematic year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Larceny movie hit or flop?
Larceny has received mixed reviews with a 5.8/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.
Is Larceny worth watching?
Larceny is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Drama, Crime movies, but read reviews first.
Where can I watch Larceny online?
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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How Larceny Compares & Where it Ranks
Critic Reviews for Larceny
Poor old war widow "Deb" (Joan Caulfield) is hoodwinked into donating her savings to build a memorial to her late husband by the sharp "Rick" (John Payne). It turns out that there is no such edifice, but "Rick" isn't able to be quite as cold and calculating as usual. He starts to fall for this dignified and respectable woman. That's a risky scenario, for his boss "Silky" (Dan Duryea) just wants the cash, and that's that. It doesn't help either that his bosses gal "Tory" (Shelley Winters) is pretty flaky, also quite keen on "Rick" and is quite shrewd at manipulation, too! Payne was never exactly versatile nor, for that matter, was the usually wooden Duryea but they do well enough with this solid story and whilst there is an inevitability to the ending, George Sherman manages to keep this well paced for 90 minutes and Winters plays her part really quite effectively. The lighting could have done with some extra wattage at times, but it is still good watch.
movieMx Verified
This analysis is compiled by our editorial experts using multi-source verification and audience sentiment data for maximum accuracy.
