Thief (1981)

Thief (1981)

1981’s Thief was a very pleasant surprise for me. I heard many good things going into the movie, and now I realize why this movie is one of the 1980’s most underrated gems. This is a hardboiled crime classic that marks the directorial debut of veteran TV director Michael Mann who would produce future classics such as Heat and The Insider. The movie was also produced by Jerry Bruckheimer, who would later be known for producing blockbusters. This movie also features one of the best career performances from James Caan, whom reeks with charisma.

Frank (James Caan) is a man who makes a living cracking safes and stealing diamonds. After spending eleven years in prison, Frank wants a normal life for himself. He wants a wife, children, and a life not spent in the criminal world. In order to make the money to live his comfortable life he wants, he takes one last score from a well-known gangster, Leo (Robert Prosky). However, the score does not go well and Frank may have put himself in a corner that he may not be able to get out of.

This film is incredibly well-acted. James Caan actually made his point that this movie is the best movie he has ever done and after seeing it myself, I can concur. Caan plays the tough guy very well, but he wears his heart on his sleeve. Just watch the scene where he delivers an emotional monologue to his romantic interest, Jessie (played wonderfully by Tuesday Weld). He speaks about his career and how he is a criminal for life, and it certainly hit all the beats. Robert Prosky makes out well with his performance as the sad-faced Leo. I can’t believe I am saying this, but Willie Nelson does a great job as the master thief who acts as a father figure towards Frank. I actually wanted more of his character in the movie. This film also marks the debuts of notable actors such as William Petersen and Dennis Farina, so keep an eye out for them! In short, all of the performances are incredible with each actor playing a believable, plausible character.

Michael Mann’s direction warrants the need to be talked about. Mann is known to be meticulous when it comes to detail, and this film is no exception. Every shot, every location, and every item is used for a reason. Mann also lent authenticity to the film when he hired real-life thieves to be used as advisors. That is called dedication, folks! Mann’s trademark also includes the cinematography, which was used very well by Donald E. Thorin. The use of shadowing to highlight danger as well as filming at night added tension to the film.

I also need to talk about the synth score by Tangerine Dream. I am still shocked how it was nominated for a Razzie for worst music. The score was used effectively in the film and it really brought some pumped-up energy to the proceedings. Maybe people thought that the music was too far ahead of its time?

That is exactly what Thief is! A movie that is way too far ahead of its time. This is a movie that is not about car chases or insane action scenes. It is a movie about plausible characters and situations. It is about the choices you make in order to live the way you want. James Caan delivers a tremendous performance that may as well rank as his career best. This is a crime thriller that needs to be seen!

My Grade: A-