Raffles (1939) - Star of the month... Olivia de Havilland

Olivia de Havilland and David Niven as
Gwen and Raffles

'Raffles' is a 1939 crime comedy starring David Niven, Olivia de Havilland and Dame May Whitty.


'Raffles' tells the tale of A.J. Raffles, the "Amateur Cracksman", who decides to give up his criminal ways after he falls in love with Gwen Manders (played by de Havilland). As his final crime, he targets a necklace owned by Lady Kitty Melrose (played by Whitty).

Did you know...

• The character of 'Raffles' is parodied in 'The Simpsons' episode 'Homer the Vigilante' as cat burglar Molloy

David Niven as Raffles,
with Dame May Whitty as Lady Kitty Melrose

Closing remarks

'Raffles' is a very enjoyable crime caper to watch. David Niven is brilliant as always, however this is not one of Olivia de Havilland's greatest performances. Running for just over an hour, the film could have been made better and more suspenseful had it lasted a little longer.