Thief - The First Heist

The first few minutes of Michael Mann's debut THIEF.

[burritogamer]

this film is mesmerizing, there's something about the practicality of the heists and seeing the step by step buildup to that payoff, combined with tangerine dream's soaring synths that makes it so satisfying. reminds me a lot of what the safdie brothers are doing with their films in depicting a professional world tinged with crime and corruption (like uncut gems)

[nectarinedreams]

RIP James Caan. The BBC failed to mention this film in an article they just posted listing ten of his memorable roles. It's a shame because this is very arguably his best work.

[Bryan]

That descending shot (beginning at 1:01) is nothing less than extraordinary.

[noelwilson]

moments of poetry within this are cinematic landmarks. this and manhunter are real craftsmanship. Been a big fan of Michael Mann since both films inspired me in the 80's.

[idj]

I still have the Tangerine Dream Thief soundtrack on Vinyl LP. It was given to me as a Christmas present by my parents in 1981, I was 14 then and now have over 120 albums by them in my collection today.

[derekschoenike]

I like the way he just tosses the stuff away that he's not interested in. He knows what he wants, and sticks to that. Pro.

[lazyeyesurprise]

The opening sequence of this film is unforgettable how it conveys the mood and tension utilizing a combination of camera work, location and music.

[mickytargett]

Summer 2024 and I stumbled upon this clip - thanks for posting. One of the all time great films featuring one of the all time great actors.

[PlaylistGeneral]

The best part of this sequence is how it shows you every important part of the process, and also gives you the gist of how the safe is being broken into. I fucking LOVE the shot at 4:30 because it immediately puts you in the mind of James Caan's character, because you understand every step of the safebreaking and feel like a thief yourself for a minute. It's incredible because it's so involving.

[trevorsanders]

As soon as you see “music by tangerine dream” you know it’s going to be a good film.

[JSavo_]

Some movies you see and you think oh this is Tarantino, this is Scorsese. If you watch this, there is not a single doubt that this is a Michael Mann film. Thief, Manhunter, Heat, Collateral, Public Enemies, Miami Vice (show and movie). Mann makes a great argument as the King of Crime Cinema.

[sebastianfitzptraick]

This is what cinema is all about, Michael Mann is a genius.

[careycarson]

The shot at 7:01 is a beautiful composition. The traffic lights being reflected off the car and the rain-soaked pavement. It's the cherry on top.

[Triviata]

Watched this film for the first time yesterday. It's a good film and I really like the atmosphere created by the Tangerine Dream soundtrack. Mann only improved in the time between making Thief and Heat - the style he showed here in 1981, he perfected in 1995.

[kino-apparatproductions]

Pure Class and a real signature from Michael Mann and his team - giving respect to a viewer with extraordinary attention to detail and respecting your own trade and ambition. Real lesson how to introduce your idea to a viewer or shall I rather say instant follower.

[jackryan]

Jerry Bruckheimer & Criterion. Two names I never thought would ever appear together.

[JeffTheDudeAbides]

Just got it in the mail today which was the last I purchased for the Criterion sale at Barnes and Noble.

[MrHereWeGoYo]

My favorite part of the film to be honest. A perfect combination of mood, music and visuals. The shot as they slowly pan down into the alley is awesome.

[DSMG]

R.I.P Edgar Froese - Your music will be missed !

[OctoberTFB]

The nighttime scenes are quite spectacular.