Burglar (1987)

Burglar Poster

Bernice "Bernie" Rhodenbarr is a burglar by trade, and she runs a bookstore as well. Her friend Carl Hefler is a dog groomer. After a successful burglary, it's discovered that a dead body was in the house she burgled. As she's the only one who can be placed at the scene of the crime, she has to use her criminal skills to clear her name of the murder AND avoid getting charged with the burglary.

Intro to "Burglar"
"Burglar" is a 1987 funny movie directed by Hugh Wilson, featuring Whoopi Goldberg in the function of Bernice Rhodenbarr, a former burglar turned book shop owner. Regardless of her efforts to lead a sincere life, Bernice discovers herself dragged back into the world of criminal activity. The film combines elements of funny and crime capers, with Goldberg's comedic talent at the forefront.

Plot Overview
The story focuses on Bernice Rhodenbarr, who has actually given up her burglar lifestyle for the peaceful life of a book shop owner. However, her past is not ready to let her go just yet. Her pal Carl Hefler, played by G.W. Bailey, persuades her to do one last job: stealing an important things from a wealthy guy's house.

The heist takes a wrong turn when she finds a dead body in the house. Understanding she's been established, Bernice needs to now utilize her wits and skills as a burglar to clear her name. The victim is Dr. Cynthia Sheldrake's ex-husband, with whom Bernice had an earlier unpleasant encounter, making her a prime suspect.

Cast of Characters
Whoopi Goldberg's representation of Bernice anchors the film with her sharp-witted and sassy character. Bernice is smart, resourceful, and determined to show her innocence. Bobcat Goldthwait plays the oddball pet groomer, Carl, Bernice's best friend and unwilling accomplice who uses comic relief through his non-traditional behavior and manic energy. Other significant characters include Detective Ray Kirschman, played by Lesley Ann Warren, who becomes both an enemy and an ally to Bernice throughout her experience, and the ominous Dr. Cynthia Sheldrake, represented by Anne De Salvo.

Themes and Humor
"Burglar" checks out themes of redemption and trust. Bernice, looking for redemption for her past, need to navigate through a web of deceit and corruption. Trust enters into play as she finds out who she can count on and who might betray her.

The humor in "Burglar" is both slapstick and situational, with Goldberg's comedic timing breathing life into her character and creating a connection with the audience. Her interactions with the other characters are laced with amusing one-liners and absurd situations, providing a light-hearted counterbalance to the criminal components of the plot.

Reception and Legacy
Upon its release, "Burglar" received mixed reviews from critics, some applauding Goldberg's performance while others critiqued the movie for its irregular pacing and blending of categories. Commercially, the movie had a modest performance at package workplace but has given that gotten a degree of cult status, particularly among Whoopi Goldberg's fans.

While "Burglar" may not have actually been an important darling, its mix of funny and intrigue, coupled with Goldberg's acting, makes it an entertaining look for fans of 80's cinema and comedy-crime capers.

Conclusion
"Burglar" is a film that intertwines comedy and crime, showcasing Whoopi Goldberg's comedic skill in the midst of a mystery plot. The movie combines a witty script with a varied cast of characters, each adding to the movie's amusing take on the criminal activity genre. Despite a combined important reception, "Burglar" provides a fun and quirky watching experience, particularly for those who appreciate the lighter side of crime stories and Goldberg's unique style of humor.

Top Cast