Penny Gold (1974)

Penny Gold Poster

While investigating a murder case, a detective stumbles upon a rare-stamp swindle involving the victim's twin sister.

Film Overview
"Penny Gold" is a British police procedural movie that premiered in 1974. It was directed by Jack Cardiff with a movie script from Robert Carrington and Jane-Howard Carrington. The film's title describes the collection of expensive stamps featured prominently in its plot.

Main Characters and Plot
"Penny Gold" concentrates on two main characters. The very first is detective inspector Robert Matthews, played by British star James Booth. Matthews is a devoted cop who works with integrity and an undeviating sense of justice. The other main character of the movie is Jeff Saunders, a rich stamp collector played by Ray Barrett.

The plot focuses on a precious stamp collection which makes up uncommon "Penny Gold" stamps, thus the title of the motion picture. These stamps are taken from a safe, leading to the murder of an innocent security guard throughout the theft. The stamp collection was owned by Richard Todd's character, a millionaire businessman named Sir John Cunliffe.

Detective Matthews is charged with the examination of the robbery and murder. As he digs deeper into the case, he discovers a web of deceit, betrayal, and greed. The strange death of Jeff Saunders' sibling, who was the safe-maker, further complicates the matter and causes the unfolding of suspicious connections and possible suspects.

Throughout the examination, Saunders' questionable motive is brought into question and hints are offered at a possible connection in between him and the taken collection. The latter part of the movie focuses on the irruption of false stamps into the market, implying a plot to undermine the worth of the original collection.

Performances and Reception
James Booth delivers a gripping, convincing efficiency as the solid detective Matthews. He skillfully stabilizes the durability of his character with human empathy. Ray Barrett even more enhances the intrigue with his portrayal as the enigmatic Saunders.

"Penny Gold", though not widely recognized, is hailed for its solid plot and gripping efficiencies. Nevertheless, it has likewise received its share of criticism, particularly for its somewhat far-fetched storyline and lack of lively cinematography. Considered that it was launched during a period renowned for its gritty cinema, "Penny Gold" has actually been classified as an engaging criminal offense story for those interested in murder mysteries laced with intricacies rather than a rollercoaster criminal activity thriller.

Last Thoughts
While "Penny Gold" might not have been a major industrial success or kept in mind as a timeless, it definitely adds to the British police procedural category. The motion picture's relentless sense of intrigue kept audiences engaged and the story's cautionary message about the dangers of greed is generally understandable. Its nuanced efficiencies and crime-ridden story make it a beneficial look for those who appreciate a good investigator story tied up with elements of adventure and secret.

Top Cast

  • James Booth (small)
    James Booth
    Matthews
  • Francesca Annis (small)
    Francesca Annis
    Delphi / Diane
  • Nicky Henson (small)
    Nicky Henson
    Roger
  • Joss Ackland (small)
    Joss Ackland
    Jones
  • Richard Heffer (small)
    Richard Heffer
    Claude
  • Sue Lloyd (small)
    Sue Lloyd
    Model
  • Joseph O'Conor (small)
    Joseph O'Conor
    Blachford
  • Una Stubbs (small)
    Una Stubbs
    Anna
  • George Murcell
    Doctor Merrick
  • Marianne Stone (small)
    Marianne Stone
    Mrs. Parsons
  • Penelope Keith (small)
    Penelope Keith
    Miss. Hartridge