The Cross and the Switchblade (1970)

76% of users liked it
(783 ratings)

Based on a true story, David Wilkerson (Pat Boone) is the small-town preacher who gets caught in the shadows of a crime-ridden neighborhood in New York City. He encounters a gang led by Nicky Cruz (Erik Estrada), and David brings a message of hope to the angry youths. Guided by the street-wise… More Based on a true story, David Wilkerson (Pat Boone) is the small-town preacher who gets caught in the shadows of a crime-ridden neighborhood in New York City. He encounters a gang led by Nicky Cruz (Erik Estrada), and David brings a message of hope to the angry youths. Guided by the street-wise Little Bo (Jo-Ann Robinson), David quickly learns about the neighborhood and how to approach the cynical juveniles. This moralistic family film attempts to give hope to those who walk in the shadows of darkness. Despite the preachy nature of the plot, it is a well-done film and Pat Boone's character relates well to the targeted white, middle-class audience. Nicky Cruz would go on to become an ordained minister, preaching the gospel due to the initial efforts of David Wilkerson. ~ Dan Pavlides, Rovi

Rating, Runtime: PG, 1 hr. 45 min.
Directed By: Don Murray
Genres: Classics, Drama

In Theaters: Jun 1, 1970 Wide
On DVD: Apr 5, 2005
Studio: Gateway Films

Critic Reviews

Steve Crum, Kansas City Kansan
Tepid and boring. One of two movies during which I have ever walked out.

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Cast

            Pat Boone as David Wilkerson

            Erik Estrada as Nicky

            Jo Ann Robinson as Little Bo

            Dino de Filippi as Israel

            Don Blakely as Abdullah

            Gil Frazier as Big Cat

            Don Lamond as Sgt. Delano

            Sam Capuano as Mr. Gomez

            Alex Colon as Mingo

            Hector Mercado as Moonlight

            Stew Silver as Augie

            Dorothy James as Mrs. Gomez

            David Connell as Pusher

            Michelle Galjour as Angela

            Darrel Adleman as Pawnbroker

            Jonelle Allen as Bishop Deb

            Jackie Cronin as Norma

            Jay Devlin as District Attorney

            Laura Figueroa as Mau Mau Deb

            Thomas Mooney as Chance

            Vince O'Brien
            
            Jackelyn Giroux as Rosa

            Victor Bumbalo as Hugo

            Mark Dawson as Policeman

            Tim Pelt as Bishop
See full cast

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