Burglar (1987)

Imagine your last, "farewell" job going awry. And not just that, but with the discovery of a corpse, which automatically turns you from a nimble thief into the main suspect. It is with such a delicate situation that Hugh Wilson's 1987 comedy "Burglar" begins, starring the incomparable Whoopi Goldberg as Bernice Rhodenbarr.

Plot

Bernice Rhodenbarr, a uniquely brilliant and incredibly witty burglar, decides to put her criminal past behind her. However, on the path to an honest life lies "one last job" — a sort of farewell performance. But luck turns away from her at the most inopportune moment: a corpse is discovered in the ransacked apartment. The situation becomes catastrophic, because now Bernice not only needs to escape from the police but also find the real killer to clear her name. In this difficult task, she has to team up with Carl — her eccentric friend, whose profession, dog groomer, clearly doesn't promise brilliant forensic skills. Together, they will have to plunge into a world of intrigue and danger, trying to outsmart both the police and the true culprit.

Why It's Worth Watching

• Whoopi Goldberg in the Lead Role: Whoopi Goldberg's natural charm and unparalleled comedic talent make her Bernice Rhodenbarr an unforgettable character. She brings a unique combination of resourcefulness, irony, and humanity to the role of the burglar, setting the film apart in its genre.
• Successful Blend of Genres: The film skillfully balances between pure comedy and elements of a detective thriller. Laughter and suspense go hand in hand, creating a dynamic and engaging narrative.
• Unconventional Duo: The partnership between Bernice and her friend, Carl the dog groomer, offers many amusing situations and drives the plot, based on the comedic contrast of their characters and methods.
• Intriguing Premise: A story where the main character, trying to quit crime, suddenly finds herself at the center of an even more serious crime, instantly grabs attention and elicits empathy.
• Hugh Wilson's Direction: Known for his ability to work with comedic material, Wilson ensures the film has a brisk pace and clear direction, allowing the actors to maximize their potential.

Themes

"Burglar" explores themes of redemption and the search for a second chance, as Bernice strives to leave her criminal past behind, but circumstances pull her into a new cycle of problems. Central is the idea of unfair accusation and the need to prove one's innocence, facing systemic bias. The film also touches on the theme of unexpected partnerships, showing how two completely different people can unite for a common goal, and emphasizes the importance of friendship and support in crisis situations. Furthermore, the picture reflects on moral dilemmas and choices that must be made when not only freedom but also life is at stake.

Editorial Opinion

"Burglar" is a shining example of comedy from its era, remaining relevant thanks to Whoopi Goldberg's charisma and an intriguing plot. Director Hugh Wilson created a film where every comedic misunderstanding only intensifies the dynamic of the detective investigation. Alongside Whoopi Goldberg, the cast, including Mike Pniewski, G.W. Bailey, and others, effectively supports the overall atmosphere, making each scene rich and lively. This is a film for those who appreciate smart humor, engaging puzzles, and stories about unusual heroes forced to navigate the most unpredictable situations. The movie promises a light and fun pastime.