Take the Money and Run

The film revolves around Virgil Starkwell, whose ambition to become a notorious bank robber is undermined by his clumsiness and poor judgment. Presented as a pseudo-documentary, it uses interviews, narration, and home-movie-style footage to tell the story of Virgil’s repeated failures in crime, including botched robberies and prison escapes.

Woody Allen directed and starred as Virgil Starkwell, marking his transition from stand-up comedy and television into feature filmmaking. Janet Margolin co-stars as Louise, Virgil’s girlfriend and eventual wife, offering a grounded foil to his chaotic character. The film’s style draws from the documentary form while incorporating slapstick and absurdist humor, elements that would define much of Allen’s early work.

Produced by Palomar Pictures International, Take the Money and Run received a varied critical reception on release but has gained appreciation over time for its inventive approach and Allen’s comedic voice. The film holds a place as a cult comedy, influencing the mockumentary genre and Allen’s career trajectory.

Collectors can find this title across multiple physical formats, including VHS, DVD, Blu-ray, and laserdisc. Each format offers a different way to experience the film’s distinctive visual texture and period-specific humor. Its availability in a range of editions reflects its enduring interest among fans of Allen and vintage comedy cinema.

The film’s brief runtime of 85 minutes packs a concentrated dose of physical comedy and witty dialogue. The interplay between the film’s narrative and documentary techniques makes it a subject of study for collectors interested in the evolution of comedic filmmaking and Allen’s early style.