The Hallowed Hall of Great Thieves in Cinema
In the cinematic universe, certain characters stand out as the greatest thieves thanks to their complex personalities, relatable goals, and the allure of their deeds. Whether they are portrayed as cool, cunning, or simply as individuals trying to navigate life, these characters captivate audiences. Let's delve into the legends of the silver screen and explore the stories of some of the greatest thieves in cinema.
Real-life Inspiration or Cinematic Legend
One of the most striking depictions of a real-life criminal is Mesrine. Based on the life of Jacques Mesrine, the film showcases his devious and sociopathic nature. Mesrine Part 1: Killer Instinct (2008) and Mesrine Part 2: Public Enemy (2008) chronicle his life and the twists and turns that led to his downfall, making for a compelling and tragic story.
The Usual Suspects and Iconic Thieves
Another series of notorious thieves in the cinematic landscape is the enduring character of Keyser Soze from The Usual Suspects. Keyser Soze is a character that embodies the image of a master thief and a killer, with his chilling presence and cryptic nature. This character leaves an indelible mark on the audience, making the film a classic.
The eponymous group of thieves in the Oceans franchise, including Danny Ocean from Oceans 11, adds another layer of complexity. In addition to Rusty Ryan, there are also Doug MacRay from The Town, Neil McCauley from Heat, Nick Wells from The Score, Cobb from Inception, Dalton Russell from The Inside Man, and Bodhi from Point Break. Each character has their distinct charm and purpose, making them memorable on screen.
Relatability and Goals
What is it about these thieves that make them relatable? For one, they are generally portrayed as cool, funny, or even relatable characters. Sometimes, these thieves have a specific goal they are working towards, and they are not usually seeking to harm anyone for the sake of it. Instead, they have a purpose behind their actions.
The Ocean's Eleven Gang and Beyond
The de Castel bout and Clooney's version of Oceans 11 portrays a group of diverse thieves who often crack jokes and display wit. These characters are almost a gang, and one can imagine walking alongside them during their adventures. The camaraderie and humor they share make them appealing to viewers.
Considering another example, Rusty Ryan from Oceans 11 and Neil McCauley from Heat, both have different approaches to their criminal activities. McCauley, played by Robert DeNiro, wants to retire but still has a skill for theft. He faces the conflict of wanting to balance his personal life with his past. Similarly, in Gone in 60 Seconds, starring Nicolas Cage, a team of thieves is brought back together to save Cage's younger brother, adding a personal touch to their thievery.
Other Notable Thieves in Cinema
Additionally, there are other notable thieves in cinema that deserve recognition. The Thomas Crowne Affair and its remake, while not mentioned, must have their appeal with famous actors like Steve McQueen and Pierce Brosnan starring. The films Rififi and The Thomas Crown Affair likely have their unique charm, adding to the rich tapestry of cinematic thieves.
Conclusion
Thieves in cinema often stand out because of their complex characters, relatable goals, and the allure of their underworld. From real-life inspirations to fictional masterminds, the greatest thieves in cinema continue to captivate audiences with their stories of deception, resilience, and occasional redemption. Whether it’s the cunning of Keyser Soze, the camaraderie of the Ocean’s Eleven gang, or the lone wolfs like Neil McCauley, these characters underscore the intrigue and fascination of the underworld.