3. Take The Money And Run (1969)
This 1969 'mockumentary' film was the first in which Woody Allen wrote (along with Mickey Rose), directed and starred in the same picture. The story follows the life of Virgil Starkwell (Allen), a petty crook turned inept bank robber who bumbles his way through a life of crime. After numerous failed robbery attempts, Virgil finds himself in prison and working on a road gang. Later, he makes a daring escape along with his fellow convicts, disguised as an 'immense charm bracelet'. He continues to be a criminal in an attempt to support his young family before eventually obtaining a 700 year imprisonment. The film has many memorable scenes, including the interviews with Virgil's parents - who wear face masks because they are deeply ashamed of their son. Another sees Virgil trying to fight back against armed officers with a gun carved from soap and the marching band scene is a classic, with Virgil attempting to play the cello. The film is set in San Francisco, with some filming being done at San Quentin State Prison, in which actual inmates were used as actors. 'Take the Money And Run' was the first real film in which Allen could express himself fully, and it paved the way for a string of hilarious comedies over the next few years.