John Turturro shines in a delightful, old-school crime thriller that will leave you rooting for its lovable but morally dubious protagonist. Writer-director Noah Segan's "The Only Living Pickpocket in New York" is a charming throwback to 1970s-style character-driven cinema, with all the nostalgia and wit of a bygone era.
Turturro plays Harry, a pickpocket who prides himself on traditional techniques, despite operating in a smartphone-filled world. His performance is a highlight of the film, bringing warmth and likability to a character that could easily have been one-dimensional. The chemistry between Turturro's Harry and Steve Buscemi's gruff but kind-hearted pawnbroker Ben is particularly enjoyable.
The story follows Harry as he navigates the dangers of modern-day New York City, using his old-school skills to survive. Along the way, he must contend with a ruthless crime family and their spoiled offspring, played by rising star Will Price in a scene-stealing turn. But when Harry's past comes back to haunt him, he must confront his own demons and face the consequences of his actions.
One of the standout aspects of "The Only Living Pickpocket in New York" is its strong sense of place and atmosphere. The film is a love letter to New York City, capturing its energy and grit in all its glory. From the subway tunnels to the bustling streets of Manhattan, every location feels authentic and immersive.
The supporting cast also deserves mention, particularly Tatiana Maslany as Harry's estranged daughter. Her performance is a masterclass in subtlety, conveying decades of anger and sadness through a single, devastating scene.
If the film has any weaknesses, it's that Segan's script sometimes relies on contrived plot twists and convenient coincidences. However, these flaws are minor compared to the film's many strengths.
Overall, "The Only Living Pickpocket in New York" is a delightful, old-school crime thriller that will leave you smiling long after the credits roll. With its strong performances, witty dialogue, and authentic sense of place, it's a must-see for fans of classic cinema.
Turturro plays Harry, a pickpocket who prides himself on traditional techniques, despite operating in a smartphone-filled world. His performance is a highlight of the film, bringing warmth and likability to a character that could easily have been one-dimensional. The chemistry between Turturro's Harry and Steve Buscemi's gruff but kind-hearted pawnbroker Ben is particularly enjoyable.
The story follows Harry as he navigates the dangers of modern-day New York City, using his old-school skills to survive. Along the way, he must contend with a ruthless crime family and their spoiled offspring, played by rising star Will Price in a scene-stealing turn. But when Harry's past comes back to haunt him, he must confront his own demons and face the consequences of his actions.
One of the standout aspects of "The Only Living Pickpocket in New York" is its strong sense of place and atmosphere. The film is a love letter to New York City, capturing its energy and grit in all its glory. From the subway tunnels to the bustling streets of Manhattan, every location feels authentic and immersive.
The supporting cast also deserves mention, particularly Tatiana Maslany as Harry's estranged daughter. Her performance is a masterclass in subtlety, conveying decades of anger and sadness through a single, devastating scene.
If the film has any weaknesses, it's that Segan's script sometimes relies on contrived plot twists and convenient coincidences. However, these flaws are minor compared to the film's many strengths.
Overall, "The Only Living Pickpocket in New York" is a delightful, old-school crime thriller that will leave you smiling long after the credits roll. With its strong performances, witty dialogue, and authentic sense of place, it's a must-see for fans of classic cinema.