"Crime Does Not Pay" is a VERY long sit (153 minutes), but it does contain some genuine surprises. It's a 4-episode film: the 1st episode is a lushly produced Venetian period tale of multiple passions - and revenge; Rosanna Schiaffino is astonishing in a supporting role. The 2nd is a shockingly timely tale of defamation and character assassination - actually timelier now, in the internet / fake news era, than when the film was made; Michele Morgan is marvelous. The 3rd is a twisty if overextended showcase for femme fatale Annie Girardot. The 4th offers a rare chance to see a maturely sexy Danielle Darrieux doing comedy; it has some startling moments. Overall the film is definitely worth watching, but you may feel the need to break it down into more than one sittings. **1/2 out of 4.
