Is The Big Money Worth Watching?
Answer: Yes, The Big Money is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Comedy movies.
It features a runtime of 86 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to general audiences.
The Big Money Review
Last updated: January 10, 2026
The Premise
Released in 1958, The Big Money enters the Comedy genre with a narrative focused on Petty thief Willie Frith steals a suitcase full of bank notes, only to find out that they have been given all the same serial number. Under the direction of John Paddy Carstairs, the film attempts to weave detailed character arcs with visual storytelling.
Cast & Performance
The film is anchored by performances from Ian Carmichael, Belinda Lee, Kathleen Harrison. While the cast delivers competent performances, the script occasionally limits their range.
Technical Mastery & Style
From a technical standpoint, The Big Money offers a competent presentation. The cinematography uses a distinct visual palette that aligns well with the tone. The sharp editing keeps the narrative moving at a brisk pace, maximizing the impact of the key sequences.
Social Impact & Cultural Context
Beyond the narrative, The Big Money resonates with current cultural themes in the Comedy space. It stays within the established boundaries of its genre, providing exactly what core fans expect without reinventing the wheel.
Where to Watch & Streaming Info
As of January 2026, The Big Money is available in theaters worldwide. For streaming audiences in the US, UK, and India, look for availability on major platforms roughly 45-60 days after the theatrical release. Don't miss the high-definition experience provided by premium large format (PLF) screenings.
Narrative Arc & Plot Breakdown
The plot of The Big Money centers on a unique premise within the Comedy landscape. Petty thief Willie Frith steals a suitcase full of bank notes, only to find out that they have been given all the same serial number. But this is only the start of his troubles, now he has to find a way of changing the notes, so he can impress the barmaid of his local pub. The second act serves as a major turning point, leading to a climax that fans of 1958 cinema will find fairly predictable.
Ending Explained & Sequel Potential
The ending of The Big Money has sparked significant debate on social media. It signifies the ambiguous resolution of the main plot thread. Given the current box office momentum, discussions of a The Big Money sequel or a wider cinematic universe are already gaining traction.
Final Editorial Verdict
Final verdict for The Big Money (1958): with an audience rating of 6.4/10, the reception has been divisive. It is a recommended for fans of Comedy cinema who appreciate attention to detail.
Parents Guide & Age Rating
The Big Money has not been officially rated yet.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 6.4/10, and global collection metrics, The Big Money stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 1958 cinematic year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Big Money movie hit or flop?
The Big Money has received mixed reviews with a 6.4/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.
Is The Big Money worth watching?
The Big Money is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Comedy movies, but read reviews first.
What genre is The Big Money?
The Big Money is a Comedy movie that Petty thief Willie Frith steals a suitcase full of bank notes, only to find out that they have been given all the same serial number. But this is only...
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People Also Ask (FAQs)
Is The Big Money movie hit or flop?
The Big Money has received mixed reviews with a 6.4/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.
Is The Big Money worth watching?
The Big Money is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Comedy movies, but read reviews first.
What genre is The Big Money?
The Big Money is a Comedy movie that Petty thief Willie Frith steals a suitcase full of bank notes, only to find out that they have been given all the same serial number. But this is only...
Is The Big Money family friendly?
Yes, The Big Money is suitable for family viewing as it falls under the Comedy genre.
Where can I watch The Big Money?
You can find streaming options and availability for The Big Money on popular platforms. Check movieMx for the latest updates and reviews.
Who is the main cast of The Big Money?
The Big Money features a talented cast. Check our "Top Cast" section to see the full list of actors and the characters they play in this film.
How long is the movie The Big Money?
The runtime and duration of The Big Money are available in the movie details section. It's a gripping story that keeps you engaged from start to finish.
Critic Reviews
Not really a hic-hic hooray here. Out of Pinewood Studios, The Big Money is directed by John Paddy Carstairs and written by John Baines. It stats Ian Carmichael, Belinda Lee, Robert Helpmann, James Hayter, Kathleen, Harrison and George Coulouris. Music is by Van Phillips and cinematography by Jack Cox. It is a VistaVision/Technicolor production. When bumbling thief Willie Frith (Carmichael) steals a suitcase from a clergyman, he gets far more than he bargained for. Disowned by star and creators, and left on the shelf for years by the studio, it's safe to say that The Big Money at best is an awkward comedy. It's not bad exactly, in fact there's enough comedy here for those familiar with - and entertained by - British comedy slapstick pics of years gone by. The problem is a poor script that leaves a fine cast wasted. The premise is a good one, eldest son from a family of crooks is incompetent and desperately wants to not only make the family proud, but also to make it big himself. The latter of which he sees as a way of attracting the opposite sex, notably the blonde siren behind the bar of The Red Dragon. Once he secures what he thinks is his life changing steal, he is thrust into mishap after mishap, all while some unsavoury types get on his trail. What transpires is a gently amusing comedy, but in truth that's not enough to make this a must - seek - out pic for those wishing to blow the blues away. Nice to see Royal Ascot feature though, that is if you like horse racing mind... 5/10
Ian Carmichael "Willie", is the pretty hapless son in a family of petty thieves. One evening he turns up at their daily reckoning with a suitcase that he pinched from a vicar at the railway station. Turns out it contains a small fortune in £1 notes. Snag is, they all have the same serial numbers. Prudent dad (James Hayter) tells him to burn the lot, but he refuses and armed with his loot, he sets off to make a living on his own. Meantime, Robert Helpmann is trying to find out who stole his cash - and is soon on his trail. Carmichael tries quite hard here, but the joke runs out of steam very quickly and the comedy becomes more thinly stretched as he tries to impress barmaid "Gloria" (Brenda Lee). Kathleen Harrison hams up nicely as his emotionally charged mother, and Leslie Philips manages to get in on the joke renting him out an hotel suite for 40 guineas a day, but these are but fragments in a lacklustre vehicle for a star that is just short of sustainability.