- Genre
- Comedy
- Year
- 1976
- Runtime
- 1h26
0
Mastermind
A hapless heist with hilarious twists and turns awaits!
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Synopsis
Mastermind (1969) is a comedic caper directed by Jerome Epstein, starring Zero Mostel in the lead role. The film revolves around a charming but hapless amateur thief who concocts an elaborate plan to steal a priceless Fabergé egg. Combining elements of slapstick, farce, and satire, the story unfolds through a series of bungled attempts and misunderstandings as the protagonist interacts with a cast of quirky characters, including his accomplices and various law enforcement officials. The movie highlights Mostel's unique comedic timing and larger-than-life persona while exploring themes of ambition, luck, and the absurdity of crime through a lighthearted narrative that reflects the late 1960s comedic style.
Cast
Reviews
Mastermind received mixed to negative reviews upon its release, reflecting a division between critics who appreciated its humor and those who found it lacking. On IMDb, the film holds a modest rating of 4.6/10, which indicates a largely lukewarm reception from general audiences. Rotten Tomatoes does not have a formal aggregated score for this film, reflective of its obscurity, but critical commentary often points to its uneven pacing and a script that sometimes feels forced or overly reliant on slapstick gags. TV Guide commented that while Zero Mostel's performance is energetic and often hilarious, the film itself fails to maintain a consistent comedic tone. Variety noted that "Mostel's presence is a highlight, but the film's convoluted plot and dated humor may not appeal broadly." Conversely, some nostalgia-tinged reviews appreciate the film’s charm as a product of its time, highlighting its whimsical approach as a refreshing break from darker crime stories of the era. Overall, Mastermind is considered a niche comedy that fans of Zero Mostel's unique style may enjoy, but it does not resonate as strongly with contemporary or broader audiences due to its uneven execution and dated humor.
