Review of The Swindle (1955) by J J — 26 May 2011

Broderick Crawford delivers an electrifying performance in this film about an aging con-man and his crew of swindlers who make their money from conning the poorest members of society with little remorse. One of their cons include them pretending to be government officials who take deposits off homeless peasants, with fake promises of council flats. Outside their work the men are shown to be fairly compassionate individuals who aren't totally heartless. Fellini toys with the audiences emotions as in one scene you truly despise them yet ten minutes later, Fellini makes you feel sorry for them. Richard Baseheart stars too and is very good but the Crawford steals the show especially during the films closing moments that will leave even the hardest of individuals gasping. The ending was powerful and full of emotion, completely in tone with the films neorealist aspirations. Highly recommended.

8/10.