A UK Heist Gone Wrong

Laurence Harvey Leads Mates Astray in The Good Die Young (1954)

A mail robbery scheme gone wrong for pub mates misled by sociopath Laurence Harvey. Richard Basehart, John Ireland, and Stanley Baker comprise varied levels of desperation that lead to UK-set Asphalt Jungling. Helmsman Lewis Gilbert, a future 007 distiller, keeps tension at a pitch with stellar cast assist, Gloria Grahame and Joan Collins further incentive for men misguided. London-based Romulus Films looked like bright hope for Brit pic revival, what with Pandora and The Flying Dutchman, The African Queen and Moulin Rouge so far in their kit, The Good Die Young being the company's first "Filmed For Wide Screen." United Artists waited half a year before committing to US release, and then took a mere $171K in domestic rentals. Of that category tabbed "British Noir," I'd place The Good Die Young among ones outstanding, there being suspense, double-crossing, and sudden death worthy of American counterparts. It's clear Romulus keyed effort toward US appeal --- too bad Die Young died young at stateside B.O.'s.