Is The Saint Takes Over Worth Watching?
Answer: Yes, The Saint Takes Over is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Crime movies.
It features a runtime of 69 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to mature audiences.
The Saint Takes Over Review
Last updated: January 10, 2026
The Premise
Released in 1940, The Saint Takes Over enters the Crime genre with a narrative focused on The Saint Takes Over, released in 1940 by RKO Pictures, was the fifth motion picture featuring the adventures of Simon Templar, a. Under the direction of Jack Hively, the film attempts to weave detailed character arcs with visual storytelling.
Cast & Performance
The film is anchored by performances from George Sanders, Wendy Barrie, Jonathan Hale. While the cast delivers competent performances, the script occasionally limits their range.
Technical Mastery & Style
From a technical standpoint, The Saint Takes Over 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 Saint Takes Over resonates with current cultural themes in the Crime 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 Saint Takes Over 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 Saint Takes Over centers on a unique premise within the Crime landscape. The Saint Takes Over, released in 1940 by RKO Pictures, was the fifth motion picture featuring the adventures of Simon Templar, a.k.a. "The Saint" the Robin Hood-inspired crimefighter created by Leslie Charteris. This film focuses on the character of Inspector Henry Farnack. When Farnack is framed by a gang he is investigating, it is up to The Saint to clear his name. The second act serves as a major turning point, leading to a climax that fans of 1940 cinema will find fairly predictable.
Ending Explained & Sequel Potential
The ending of The Saint Takes Over 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 Saint Takes Over sequel or a wider cinematic universe are already gaining traction.
Final Editorial Verdict
Final verdict for The Saint Takes Over (1940): with an audience rating of 6.4/10, the reception has been divisive. It is a recommended for fans of Crime, Mystery cinema who appreciate attention to detail.
Parents Guide & Age Rating
The Saint Takes Over is rated NR. Parents should be aware that it contains mature themes, violence.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 6.4/10, and global collection metrics, The Saint Takes Over stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 1940 cinematic year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Saint Takes Over movie hit or flop?
The Saint Takes Over has received mixed reviews with a 6.4/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.
Is The Saint Takes Over worth watching?
The Saint Takes Over 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 Saint Takes Over?
The Saint Takes Over is a Crime, Mystery movie that The Saint Takes Over, released in 1940 by RKO Pictures, was the fifth motion picture featuring the adventures of Simon Templar, a.k.a. "The Saint" the...
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People Also Ask (FAQs)
Is The Saint Takes Over movie hit or flop?
The Saint Takes Over has received mixed reviews with a 6.4/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.
Is The Saint Takes Over worth watching?
The Saint Takes Over 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 Saint Takes Over?
The Saint Takes Over is a Crime, Mystery movie that The Saint Takes Over, released in 1940 by RKO Pictures, was the fifth motion picture featuring the adventures of Simon Templar, a.k.a. "The Saint" the...
Is The Saint Takes Over family friendly?
The Saint Takes Over may not be suitable for all family members as it contains Crime, Mystery elements. Parental guidance is recommended.
Where can I watch The Saint Takes Over?
You can find streaming options and availability for The Saint Takes Over on popular platforms. Check movieMx for the latest updates and reviews.
Who is the main cast of The Saint Takes Over?
The Saint Takes Over 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 Saint Takes Over?
The runtime and duration of The Saint Takes Over are available in the movie details section. It's a gripping story that keeps you engaged from start to finish.
Critic Reviews
When a police inspector is suspended on suspicion of fraud, it falls to his eponymous friend (George Sanders) to get to the bottom of things. It seems "Fernack" (Jonathan Hale) was found with $50,000 in his safe! Conclusive? Well soon our sleuth discovers that there is a cabal of five hoodlums determined to ruin his friend. Well they are, until, suddenly they themselves start dropping like flies. Are they betraying each other or is someone on the outside seeking revenge? "Templar" assisted by his police buddy, the not entirely trustworthy safecracker "Gates" (Paul Guilfoyle) and the slightly enigmatic "Ruth" (Wendy Barrie) who has penchant for roses must now identify and expose the culprit. Sanders was always good as the debonair, considered, detective who uses the minimum of brute force to apprehend his foes. Here the story is quite well written with a few red herrings and just enough intrigue to keep it interesting for just over an hour. Of course there's no jeopardy, but the denouement has a degree of sophistication to it that I found quite fun.