The Only Living Pickpocket In New York
In this stylish, humorous and melancholic crime film, an old-school pickpocket (John Turturro) becomes entangled in a dangerous web of criminals. A nerve-wracking chase through the iconic streets of New York ensues.
Anchored by an all-too-rare lead performance from John Turturro, The Only Living Pickpocket In New York combines low-key crime drama with a meditation on changing times. Buoyed by a stellar supporting cast that features Turturro’s fellow independent film legends Steve Buscemi and Giancarlo Esposito harkens back to the character-driven films of 1970s New Hollywood, while showcasing the titular metropolis in all its alluring complexity.
A craftsman pickpocket from the old school, Harry adheres to a routine, operates alone, and doesn’t own a smartphone. He works mainly on public transport, sells his spoils to his pawnbroker pal Ben, and goes home to his Bronx apartment every night to look after his ailing spouse. But arrogance gets the best of Harry: he winds up stealing from Dylan, the insufferable descendant of a connected crime family, and must traverse the city in an attempt to crawl out of a potentially deadly bind before the day is through.
Director Noah Segan adroitly revamps a familiar story with attention to detail, affection for every last character, and a critical view of modern life. (source: www.tiff.net)