The Wrong Arm of the Law
The Wrong Arm of the Law

The Wrong Arm of the Law

1963
Movie
94 min
English

The crooks in London know how it works. No one carries guns and no one resists the police. Then a new gang appears that go one better. They dress as police and steal from the crooks. This upsets the natural order of the police/criminal relationship and the police and the crooks join forces to catch the IPOs (Impersonating Police Officers), including an armoured car robbery in which the police must help the gangs to set a trap.

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IMDb7.0/10
Director: Cliff OwenGenres: Comedy, Crime

Plot Summary

A gang of sophisticated criminals, led by the notorious 'Nervous' O'Dell, operate under the guise of a respectable flower-arranging club. Their meticulously planned robberies are constantly thwarted by a determined police inspector who suspects their true activities. When a rival gang of undertakers threatens to muscle in on their territory, O'Dell must use his wits and his unconventional network to protect his operation and expose the newcomers.

Critical Reception

The Wrong Arm of the Law was a moderate success, appreciated for its lighthearted take on crime capers and Peter Sellers's comedic performance. While not universally lauded as a classic, it is remembered fondly as a charming British crime comedy with a clever premise and a strong ensemble cast.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its witty script and inventive plot.
  • Appreciated Peter Sellers's characteristic comedic timing.
  • Seen as a solid, if not groundbreaking, example of British crime comedy.

Google audience: Audience reviews are generally positive, highlighting the film's humor and the memorable performances, particularly Peter Sellers. Many find it an enjoyable and lighthearted crime comedy from its era.

Fun Fact

The film features a rare early role for Burt Kwouk, who would later become famous for his portrayal of Cato Fong in Blake Edwards's 'The Pink Panther' film series, often opposite Peter Sellers.

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My Review

TMDB Reviews

1 reviews
CinemaSerf

CinemaSerf

Ostensibly, "Pearly Gates" (Peter Sellers) is a French couturier selling posh frocks, but we know in reality he's a crook. Imagine his chagrin when his latest crime falls foul of the police! Imagine how much worse it gets when he discovers ...