Pickpocket
Pickpocket

Movie spotlight

Pickpocket

2000
Movie
112 min
Japanese

Kaido is a professional pickpocket who works the Tokyo subway with his young foster-daughter, Rei: She lets herself be groped while Kaido relieves the groper of his wallet. More often than not they're observed by a middle-aged cop, who generally lets Kaido go free. Rei is unsettled when Kaido takes on a young street punk, Kazuki, as an apprentice -- with instructions to make Kaido stop drinking. Kazuki, however, would like to go into business with Rei.

Insights

IMDb5.5/10
Rotten Tomatoes18%
Metacritic35/100
Google Users55%
Director: Robert HarmonGenres: Crime, Drama, Thriller

Plot Summary

A skilled pickpocket, accustomed to a life of petty theft and manipulation, finds himself entangled in a dangerous game when he attempts to steal from a powerful crime boss. As he gets deeper into the criminal underworld, he must rely on his wits and agility to survive against formidable adversaries and protect the few people he cares about. The film explores themes of greed, loyalty, and the consequences of a life lived on the wrong side of the law.

Critical Reception

Pickpocket received a mixed to negative reception from critics, with many finding its plot predictable and its characters underdeveloped. While some acknowledged the film's attempt at a stylish crime thriller, the overall consensus pointed to a lack of originality and a failure to deliver a compelling narrative. Audience reception was similarly lukewarm, with the film failing to make a significant impact at the box office.

What Reviewers Say

  • The film suffers from a derivative plot and uninspired direction.

  • Nicolas Cage's performance is criticized for being over-the-top and not fitting the character.

  • The movie lacks the suspense and intrigue expected of a crime thriller.

Google audience: Google users generally found the movie to be a forgettable crime drama. Many felt the plot was weak and the acting, particularly Nicolas Cage's, was a major disappointment. Some viewers appreciated the attempt at a gritty atmosphere, but most agreed it didn't live up to its potential.

Awards & Accolades

None notable.

Fun Fact

The film was originally intended to be a more serious drama, but underwent significant rewrites during production, leading to its current, more action-oriented, yet ultimately unsuccessful, tone.

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