The Thief Who Came to Dinner (1973)

Disenchanted by the rampant corruption suffocating his world, Webster McGee, a former computer engineer at the Control Data Corporation in Houston, boldly steps away from his mundane life. He dives headfirst into an audacious new venture, not out of greed, but to redefine his existence as an 'honest' jewel thief. His initial heist, aimed at the unscrupulous businessman Gene Henderling, kick-starts a thrilling journey filled with unexpected turns. Webster's life takes on a new hue when he begins a romance with Laura Keaton, a beautiful but impoverished socialite. He candidly shares his unconventional occupation with her, painting a tantalizing picture of his thrilling escapades. Dubbed as 'The Chess Burglar' by the media, courtesy of his unique calling card—a chess piece and a scribbled chess move left at the scene of his crimes—Webster enters a high-stakes duel of wits with the Houston Post's snobbish chess columnist, Zukovsky. Webster's audacious exploits and his daring chess game draw the attention of a relentless insurance investigator, David Reilly, who is convinced that Webster is the elusive Chess Burglar. Meanwhile, the thrill of Webster's new life lures his ex-wife, the glamorous actress Jackie Johnson, back into his world. Jackie, who had left a dull computer engineer behind, now finds herself irresistibly drawn towards the adrenaline-fueled existence of a jewel thief. Webster's life spirals into a captivating whirlwind of dangerous heists, passionate love, and intellectual chess games, all while staying one step ahead of those on his trail.

The Thief Who Came to Dinner is a comedy movie featuring Austin Pendleton and directed by Bud Yorkin.

The Thief Who Came to Dinner is currently streaming on TCM.