The Delicate Delinquent
The Delicate Delinquent (1957) starring Jerry Lewis, Darren McGavin
The Delicate Delinquent is Jerry Lewis’ first solo film without Dean Martin – but it’s worth watching for more than that. In the title role, Jerry Lewis plays the part of Sidney Pythias. Sidney is mistaken for a gang member during a police round-up. Then a caring police officer named Damon, played by Darren McGavin, intercedes in the directionless young man’s life. For the better. The movie was originally written for the team of Martin and Lewis. The title characters’ names referring to the Greek myth of Damon and Pythias, inseparable friends. Darren McGavin does excellently in the role of Officer Damon, who is “bucking the system”. By trying to rehabilitate delinquents.








