“The Burglar” was filmed in 1955, but not released until 1957. As noiroftheweek.com explains, “The reason for this isn’t a mystery the size of which Sam Spade himself would need to investigate. Quite simply, the film fails to produce to expectations on a few levels. The fact that it took two years between when the film was finished and it’s theatrical release, suggest that I might not be the only one who feels this way.”
What this film does offer for a limited audience (I’m talking about YOU) are some beautiful location shots in Merion, Center City Philadelphia and Atlantic City.
Here’s a plot synopsis of the movie, spoilers and all. You can rent it on Amazon for $3.99, but quite frankly, once you’ve seen all the terrific local footage (below), you might strongly consider spending the hour and a half that you might have invested in the film, on something more worthwhile.
Shortly after “The Burglar” begins, we are taken from the steps of the Art Museum, to a building in Merion Station that currently is the home of Kohelet Yeshiva. Prior to Kohelet Yeshiva, Jack Barrack Hebrew Academy (formerly Akiba Academy) was located there from 1956 until 2008.
It was built in 1913 for Anna McMenamin and was known as Drake-Linden Hall. The architect was Frank Seeburger.
The archway that was the backdrop for the “Sister Sara” scene, has been encapsulated more recently by an addition.
Don’t blink, or you’ll miss this scene where they go whizzing by the Penn Fruit on City Line.
Did you miss it? Don’t worry. Here are some still images of the scene (lightened up, up just a tad).
Broadcast Pioneers describes John Facenda as “the King of Philadelphia television news.” Countless of football fans outside this area, might not be able to tell you his name, but they would surely recognize Facenda’s iconic voice from his NFL Films narrations.
Dan Duryea visits Philly – Independence Hall, the Art Museum and the Fountains at Logan Circle
Dan Duryea and Jayne Mansfield at 30th Street Station.
Pennsylvania Railroad (PRR, Pennsy) train to Atlantic City, and a gratuitous shot of Jayne Mansfield (in a very modest two-piece) on the beach.
Jayne in a Rolling Chair on the Boardwalk
Marshes, lighthouse, pigeons & rolling chairs, Steel Pier, rides, haunted houseand a diving horse
Hey Gerry,
Thanks for linking me to this content!
What a trip to see the old Philly/Main Line footage and particularly that of AC. And Jayne Mansfield!
Was AC actually once “the Playground of the World”!?
Best to you!
Fascinating article. Was the entire film done on location in Philly/AC, or did they just do some outdoor shots and then film the rest in studios?
I’m pretty sure it was all shot on location (on a $90k budget, mind you). There are some interior scenes shot inside the building in Merion. The cinematographer was Don Malkames. His CV is not that impressive, but I think he killed it on this picture. https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0539776/?ref_=ttfc_fc_cr4
Very cool.