Review of Thief (1981) by Tommy H — 11 Apr 2015
Even though it was made in 1981, I would call Thief the last great crime drama of the 1970's. The only thing that makes this recognizable as an 80's film are the action scenes. It's a movie that seems like two totally different movies cut up and pasted together, which always results in brilliance or a contender for worst movie ever made.
The division in the movie is really the point of the movie. James Caan, in the best role I've ever seen him in, plays a man trying to settle down with a wife and kid and get away from his life of crime.
At first it seems to work, but then he gets pulled back into the criminal life, drama tries to interfere with his relationship, and worlds collide. Both lives influence the other and they clash, but Caan plays both lives cold and calm.
He doesn't seem like a man living a double life he plays both lives exactly the same. Like how with the baby drama he stays cool and just thinks logically to himself "what's the best way to get what I want? Okay, let's do it.
" When he's turned down for the adoption he sees the consequences of his criminal lifestyle and mindset, even though he never really goes through any big character changes. It's definitely a strength to the film and gives it that gritty 70's feel.
The movie is more about telling a story than teaching a lesson about personal growth. Right up until the end Caan plays the character like he's in a straight-up heist movie. It's a film noir in that sense.
Depending on how you judge people, it's up to you to determine the end of the movie as far as character development goes.
This review of Thief (1981) was written by Tommy H on 11 Apr 2015.
Thief has generally received very positive reviews.
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