Review of Thief (1981) by Paul J — 09 May 2015
The film that defines the separation between 70's and 80's films. Mann help popularize the shiny, blue-silverish look of 80's cinema; a highly stylized and produced quality that reverberated throughout the decade in music videos, TV shows and movies.
Yet, Mann always had a huge level of substance in his films and his debut is no exception. Caan and the rest of the cast are spectacular and Mann truly embraces the portrayal of the anti-hero. Like a true psychopath, Caan's character is unafraid of getting killed.
One of the final images of the picture crumpled up, symbolizes all our average lives being turned upside down. Visually the film is fantastic and Dream's score is pitch-perfect. (Clearly, Drive was heavily influenced).
The rain-soaked streets and neon lights n the distance became a staple of 80's visual storytelling. It's cinematic and a great sign of a major talent that would continue to write and direct masterpieces.
This review of Thief (1981) was written by Paul J on 09 May 2015.
Thief has generally received very positive reviews.
Was this review helpful?
