Written by Halette Pisano
Modified & Updated: 14 May 2024
Reviewed by Sherman Smith
“Take the Money and Run” is a classic comedy film released in 1969, directed by and starring the legendary Woody Allen. This satirical film tells the hilarious story of Virgil Starkwell, a bumbling and inept criminal who dreams of becoming a great bank robber. Throughout the movie, audiences are taken on a rollercoaster ride filled with slapstick humor and quirky characters. With its clever wit and unique storytelling style, “Take the Money and Run” has become a cult favorite among film enthusiasts. In this article, we will take a deeper look at this iconic movie, delving into 34 fascinating facts that every fan should know. So, fasten your seatbelts and get ready for an entertaining journey through the hilarious world of “Take the Money and Run!
Key Takeaways:
- “Take the Money and Run” is a classic comedy film directed by Woody Allen, known for its unique mockumentary style, slapstick humor, and memorable characters, making it a timeless and entertaining watch.
- Woody Allen’s directorial debut showcases his signature wit and comedic talent, earning critical acclaim and international success, solidifying its place as a beloved classic in the world of comedy movies.
Unique Filming Style
“Take the Money and Run” was shot using a documentary-style format, giving it a realistic and humorous touch.
Mockumentary Genre
The film is often considered one of the earliest examples of the mockumentary genre, blending fiction and reality seamlessly.
Woody Allen’s First Directorial Feature
This movie marked Woody Allen’s directorial debut for a full-length feature film.
Hilarious Misadventures of Virgil Starkwell
The story revolves around the life of Virgil Starkwell, a bumbling and inept criminal who dreams of becoming a successful bank robber.
Allen’s Writing and Acting
Woody Allen not only directed the film but also starred in it as the main character, Virgil Starkwell.
Parodying Crime Films
“Take the Money and Run” parodies various crime films and gangster tropes, adding a comedic twist to the genre.
Slapstick Comedy
The movie is filled with slapstick humor, ensuring plenty of laughs throughout.
Quirky Supporting Characters
From Virgil’s eccentric family to the oddball criminals he encounters, the supporting characters add depth and comedic relief.
Reception
The movie received positive reviews from both critics and audiences, praising its humor and unique approach.
Box Office Success
Despite being made on a modest budget, “Take the Money and Run” became a commercial success, further establishing Woody Allen’s career.
Improvisation
Many scenes in the film were improvised, showcasing Allen’s talent for spontaneous and witty dialogue.
Breaking the Fourth Wall
The movie breaks the fourth wall, with characters directly addressing the audience, adding a meta layer to the storytelling.
Memorable Line: “I have a gub”
One of the most memorable lines from the film is when Virgil attempts to rob a bank, but all he has is a note saying, “I have a gub” instead of a gun.
Comedic Pacing
The movie’s fast-paced comedic timing keeps the audience engaged from start to finish.
Music Score by Marvin Hamlisch
The film features a memorable music score composed by the legendary Marvin Hamlisch.
Visual Gags
Visual gags and clever sight jokes are sprinkled throughout the film, adding an extra layer of amusement.
Cultural References
Allen cleverly incorporates nods to various cultural references, making the film relatable to a wide range of audiences.
Intertwining Narratives
The movie seamlessly weaves together multiple narratives, creating a complex yet comedic storyline.
Award Nominations
Take the Money and Run” was nominated for several awards, including an Edgar Award for Best Motion Picture.
Canny Robbery Techniques
Virgil’s attempts at perfecting his robbery techniques result in hilarious and creative methods.
Surreal Humor
Woody Allen’s signature surreal brand of humor is showcased throughout the film.
Authentic Cinematography
The movie was shot on location in various cities, adding authenticity to the storytelling.
Cinematic Influences
Allen drew inspiration from classic crime and comedy films while creating “Take the Money and Run.”
Cultural Impact
The film has had a lasting impact on the mockumentary genre and has inspired numerous filmmakers.
Insight into Woody Allen’s Style
“Take the Money and Run” provides an early glimpse into Woody Allen’s distinctive filmmaking style and comedic sensibility.
Critical Success
The movie was praised for its clever writing, strong performances, and innovative approach to storytelling.
Timeless Comedy
Decades after its release, “Take the Money and Run” remains a timeless comedy that continues to entertain audiences.
Clever Puns and Wordplay
The film is filled with clever puns and witty wordplay, showcasing Allen’s talent for language-based humor.
Influence on Woody Allen’s Career
Take the Money and Run” played a pivotal role in establishing Woody Allen as a prominent writer, director, and actor in Hollywood.
International Success
The film achieved success not only domestically but also internationally, further solidifying its reputation as a comedic gem.
Satirical Elements
The movie incorporates satirical elements, providing social commentary through its humor.
Standout Performance by Louise Lasser
Louise Lasser gives a standout performance as Virgil’s love interest and partner in crime.
Classic Woody Allen Wit
The film is infused with Woody Allen’s trademark wit, showcasing his unparalleled talent for blending humor with intellectual observations.
Enduring Legacy
Decades later, “Take the Money and Run” remains a beloved part of Woody Allen’s filmography and a must-watch for comedy enthusiasts.
So there you have it, The 34 Facts about the movie “Take the Money and Run.” Whether you’re a fan of Woody Allen’s unique brand of humor or a lover of timeless comedy, this film is sure to leave you laughing and entertained from start to finish.
Conclusion
Take the Money and Run is a classic comedy film directed by Woody Allen. Released in 1969, the movie follows the misadventures of Virgil Starkwell, a bumbling and inept bank robber. With its clever humor, innovative mockumentary style, and memorable characters, Take the Money and Run has become a beloved cult classic.
The film showcases Allen’s unique comedic style, blending slapstick comedy with witty dialogue and clever visual gags. It also marked the beginning of Allen’s successful career as a filmmaker, paving the way for his subsequent works that have made him one of the most influential figures in the entertainment industry.
From its hilarious plot to its iconic scenes, Take the Money and Run continues to entertain audiences to this day. Whether you’re a fan of Woody Allen’s films or simply looking for a good laugh, this movie is definitely worth checking out.
So, grab some popcorn, sit back, and enjoy the comedic brilliance of Take the Money and Run!
FAQs
1. When was Take the Money and Run released?
Take the Money and Run was released in 1969.
2. Who directed Take the Money and Run?
The movie was directed by Woody Allen.
3. What genre does Take the Money and Run belong to?
Take the Money and Run is a comedy film.
4. Is Take the Money and Run suitable for all ages?
The film is rated PG-13 and may not be suitable for young children due to some comedic violence and suggestive content.
5. Is Take the Money and Run based on a true story?
No, the movie is a work of fiction and not based on a true story.
6. Are there any sequels or remakes of Take the Money and Run?
No, Take the Money and Run stands alone as a single film without any sequels or remakes.
7. What is the runtime of Take the Money and Run?
The movie has a runtime of approximately 85 minutes.
8. Where can I watch Take the Money and Run?
Take the Money and Run is available for streaming on various platforms such as Amazon Prime, iTunes, and Google Play.
If you enjoyed learning about "Take the Money and Run," why not explore more cinematic gems? Dive into the thrilling world of heist films with "Ocean's Eleven," or delve deeper into the mind of Woody Allen himself. For a change of pace, discover the side-splitting antics at Melbourne's International Comedy Festival. Each article offers a unique perspective on entertainment, guaranteed to keep you engaged and amused.
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