Is The Chance of a Lifetime Worth Watching?
Answer: Yes, The Chance of a Lifetime is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Crime movies.
It features a runtime of 65 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to mature audiences.
The Chance of a Lifetime Review
Last updated: January 9, 2026
The Premise
Released in 1943, The Chance of a Lifetime enters the Crime genre with a narrative focused on A mad scramble for stolen loot ensues after Boston Blackie has prisoners released for work in a wartime defence plant. Under the direction of William Castle, the film attempts to weave detailed character arcs with visual storytelling.
Cast & Performance
The film is anchored by performances from Chester Morris, Erik Rolf, Jeanne Bates. While the cast delivers competent performances, the script occasionally limits their range.
Technical Aspects & Direction
From a technical standpoint, The Chance of a Lifetime offers a competent presentation. The cinematography aligns well with the tone, keeping the narrative moving at a brisk pace.
Where to Watch
As of January 2026, The Chance of a Lifetime is available in theaters worldwide. For streaming audiences in the US and UK, look for availability on major platforms roughly 45 days after the theatrical release. Check your local listings for specific showtimes.
Final Thoughts
With an audience rating of 6.2/10, the reception has been divisive. For fans of Crime, Mystery, it serves as a worthy addition to the watchlist.
Cast of The Chance of a Lifetime
- Chester Morris – Horatio 'Boston Blackie' Black
- Erik Rolf – Dooley Watson
- Jeanne Bates – Mary Watson
- Richard Lane – Insp. John Farraday
- George E. Stone – The Runt
Top Highlights
Chester MorrisHoratio 'Boston Blackie' Black
Erik RolfDooley Watson
Jeanne BatesMary Watson
Richard LaneInsp. John Farraday
George E. StoneThe Runt
Lloyd CorriganArthur Manleder
Douglas FowleyNails Blanton (Uncredited)
Sid MeltonBenny Hines (Uncredited)
Ray TealPoliceman Joe (Uncredited)
Maude EburneEdna Counihan (Uncredited)
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 6.2/10, and global collection metrics, The Chance of a Lifetime stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 1943 cinematic year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Chance of a Lifetime movie hit or flop?
The Chance of a Lifetime has received mixed reviews with a 6.2/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.
Is The Chance of a Lifetime worth watching?
The Chance of a Lifetime is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Crime, Mystery movies, but read reviews first.
What genre is The Chance of a Lifetime?
The Chance of a Lifetime is a Crime, Mystery movie that A mad scramble for stolen loot ensues after Boston Blackie has prisoners released for work in a wartime defence plant....
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Critic Reviews
This time, "Boston" (Chester Morris) comes up with a proposal to the Governor that would allow some trusted prisoners to come and work in a factory to assist with the war effort. He agrees that they can live at his apartment but before long is embroiled in a plan to prove that "Dooley" (Erik Rolf) was set up for a murder he didn't commit. Unusually, "Insp. Faraday" (Richard Lane) is in on the plot to use "Blackie" as bait for the real criminal - well, him and $60,000 - and using some sleight of hand and his gang of well-meaning convicts lays a trap for... This doesn't hang about, is tightly cast with series regulars and with a more solid story than many of the other outings for an on form Morris, it passes an hour with a few red herrings and a precarious window-dangled confession at the end.