PENNY GOLD is a murder mystery thriller of the 1970s that feels very much like a TV movie, even though it isn't. The soundtrack is quite unappealing and dates this film considerably and not in a good way. There's an opening shower murder before the rest of the story follows around a weary middle-aged detective and his sidekick as they try to solve the crime.
Their crime-solving skills include a lot of questioning and the occasional car chase. Scenery-spotting accounts for much of the fun when watching, that and the appearances by future famous folk. John Rhys-Davies is a rugby player early on, and Penelope Keith brings her plummy tones to a one-scene cameo. John Savident, best known for playing Fred Elliott in CORONATION STREET, has a youthful turn, and Una Stubbs is amusing in support. Watch out for Marianne Stone, Britain's most prolific actress, and Joss Ackland to boot.
Unfortunately James Booth's detective isn't a very interesting character and I found him quite unappealing. Nicky Henson, as his sidekick, acts like Robin Askwith. Francesca Annis is a highlight playing the role of twins, even though one of them is only seen in flashback, and very appealing she is too. A shame the rest of the movie is only middling rather than engaging, although it does have a nice twist ending.
Penny Gold
1973
Crime / Drama / Mystery / Thriller
Penny Gold
1973
Crime / Drama / Mystery / Thriller
Plot summary
While investigating a murder case, a detective stumbles upon a rare-stamp swindle involving the victim's twin sister.
Uploaded by: FREEMAN
September 20, 2024 at 04:15 PM
Director
Top cast
Tech specs
720p.BLU 1080p.BLUMovie Reviews
Dated murder mystery with a TV movie feel
Old-Fashioned Murder Mystery
This could have been made at Merton Park ten years earlier, but for it being in colour, the graphic description of the injuries suffered by the murder victim and the annoying 70's-style music score by John Scott. Several other reviewers have commented on the fact that it is possible to see the final 'twist' coming almost as soon as the credits are over; although part of the fun is working out the 'how' and 'why' since the 'what' is already so obvious.
Shot in wintry London locations (particularly at and around Windsor), it's attractive to look at; but considering that it was directed by Britain's top Technicolor cameraman of the forties & fifties, it's constant reliance on zooms comes as a letdown.
Two peas in a pod.
Everyone is dying to get their hands on a priceless stamp, a Penny Gold.
It's a very watchable murder mystery, it is very much of its time, and I love that aspect of it, great cars, great fashion and some terrific location shooting. Plenty of suspense, loads of twists, expect the unexpected.
The best aspect of this film, Francesca Annie, she's a terrific talent, and dare I say it, incredibly beautiful, she has always had such enigmatic presence, I thought she made this film.
It's not a quality movie, it's a bit humdrum, but absorbing enough,w out for Joss Ackland and Penelope Keith.
One big twist I wasn't expecting, enjoyed. 6/10