St. Ives (1976 film)

St. Ives is a 1976 American crime film directed by J. Lee Thompson, starring Charles Bronson, John Houseman, Jacqueline Bisset, and Maximilian Schell. The film is based on the 1975 novel The Procane Chronicle by Oliver Bleeck (a pseudonym of Ross Thomas).

The plot centers around Raymond St. Ives (Bronson), a former police reporter and crime writer who is now writing crime novels. He is hired by a wealthy and reclusive master criminal, Abner Procane (Houseman), to act as a go-between for the return of stolen ledgers. Procane offers St. Ives a substantial sum of money to deliver the ransom to the thieves. However, the exchange goes wrong, and St. Ives finds himself framed for murder and caught in a web of deceit and violence. He must then use his knowledge of the criminal underworld to clear his name and expose the true culprits behind the conspiracy.

The film is set in Los Angeles and features elements of neo-noir. Jacqueline Bisset plays Janet Whistler, a newspaper editor who becomes romantically involved with St. Ives and assists him in his investigation. Maximilian Schell portrays a mysterious and dangerous figure involved in the criminal underworld.

St. Ives received mixed reviews upon its release but has since gained a cult following, particularly among fans of Charles Bronson's action-oriented roles. It is noted for its gritty atmosphere, complex plot, and strong performances from the cast.