ST. BENNY THE DIP

Cinemavixion Review

Edgar G. Ulmer, a director celebrated for his contributions to noir, ventures into comedic territory with "St. Benny the Dip." This 1951 film presents a unique premise: a trio of con men, led by Dick Haymes and featuring the ever-reliable Nina Foch, adopt clerical disguises to execute their schemes. The narrative cleverly explores the unexpected consequences of their ruse, as the pretense of piety begins to subtly transform the characters themselves. While not a boisterous comedy, the film offers a thoughtful examination of morality and self-perception, bolstered by Ulmer's characteristic visual flair and a cast that navigates the tonal shifts with aplomb. It's a curious, often engaging, piece that showcases a different facet of Ulmer's directorial range, proving that even in lighter fare, he could imbue a story with depth and intrigue.