Offbeat (1961)
An MI5 officer goes undercover in a gang of crooks as they attempt to pull off a diamond heist.
An interesting British B-picture starring William Sylvester (Devils of Darkness 1965). At times playing out like a lesser version of the previous years The League of Gentlemen which shows the meticulous lengths criminals go to in order to carry out the seemingly perfect crime.
Occasionally gripping, the film is well thought out with a few twists and turns along the way. The opening was particularly intriguing and completely threw me at first. Sylvester has splendid support from Anthony Dawson, John Meillon and Swedish siren, Mai Zetterling together with a zingy jazz score make this aptly titled thriller more than mere routine entertainment.
Shot on location in the centre of London, Offbeat is worth the attention of all crime film fans.
Another lovely print on the dvd from Network along with a strong soundtrack.
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