Review of Small Time Crooks (2000) by Spangle — 11 Jun 2016

Small Time Crooks has some very high highs, but does drag at spots. Thus, it is not amongst Woody Allen's best works, though it does sport his classic wit, charm, and humor. The film's first half hour soars and is truly hysterical.

With good supporting turns from Michael Rapaport, Tony Darrow, and Jon Lovitz, through this opening part, Small Time Crooks is a phenomenally funny comedy. After this, it begins to drag until its second act finally begins to hit its stride at which point it returns to being hysterical.

However, due to this dragging portion immediately after the film skips ahead a year, Small Time Crooks is held back from being a better film. As it stands, however, it is a fun blend of crime and comedy while also being a good statement about staying true to yourself, marriage, and class structure.

Overall, Woody Allen has better films, but Small Time Crooks' failures certainly do not derail the film and it remains a charming, funny, and entertaining film.