David Niven and Olivia de Havilland star in this 1939 scene-for- scene, word-for-word remake of a 1930 Ronald Colman/Kay Francis film, "Raffles." The reason for the similarity is that director Sam Wood had just finished what Victor Fleming started on the making of "Gone with the Wind" and wanted to make this next film as easy as possible. That's what Robert Osborne of TCM says. But this outing is still just as good with the always debonair Niven as the "amateur cracksman" – a jewel thief who robs from the filthy rich. Just why he ever started isn't explained. But no one really cares. He had decided to quit, when a good friend in need of funds due to a gambling debt asked him for the dough. He said he didn't have it but could get it. Niven comes across more personable than Colman though; Colman has a superior air about himself and David is so much more laid back and down to earth. But, this film does feel less romantic compared with more sensuous pairing of Kay and Ronald. Kay gave the former film more underlying sex appeal, then Olivia does here. Olivia is given very little to do. The primary action is David's latest theft at a swank party of the elite and how the law has been always trying to get him. "Raffles" of 1939 is a enjoyable little film showcasing the gentleman-actor David Niven at his best, entertaining you and stealing your wallet. Watch it!
Review of Raffles
