Struggling pulp fiction writer and hopelessly incompetent jewel thief Grant Henry (David Warbeck) finds himself failing at crime in the most spectacular way possible. No matter how hard he tries, he gets caught in the act every single time. However, armed with rugged charm and undeniable looks, he manages to turn his absolute criminal failures into major social assets. Instead of calling the police, the wealthy, neglected women of high society are thoroughly charmed. Soon, they start intentionally leaving their jewels out in the open like milk and cookies for Santa Claus, eagerly hoping the infamous sex thief will choose their home for his next unlawful invasion. As high-society doors swing wide open across town, John transforms from a bumbling burglar into an accidental celebrity of nocturnal desire.
Before helming high-octane blockbusters like GoldenEye, Casino Royale and The Mask of Zorro, director Martin Campbell cut his teeth in the wild world of early-70s British sex comedies and exploitation, showcasing an early knack for brisk pacing and visual flair.
There’s a great British pro wrestling scene in this, which made the film for me. The Sex Thief was also released with hardcore inserts in the U.S. under the names Handful of Diamonds and Her Family Jewels.
