168: Thief (1981)

For this week's Watchcast Alex is returning to his previous profession as a Mannhunter, as he takes the crew through one of his favorite Michael Mann flicks, 1981's Thief. Join us as we pick apart the taxonomy of crooks and goofs populating Chicago's early '80s underworld, and marvel at all the exquisite detail that went into this movie's look and vibe. CHAPTERS: (00:00:00) - The Nextlander Watchcast Episode 168: Thief (1981) (00:00:27) - Intro. (00:04:09) - On Mann, his early days, and how this movie got made. (00:12:48) - Before we start talking about the movie, gotta talk about the soundtrack. (00:17:18) - The opening heist. (00:23:12) - What is this movie if not a showcase for profoundly Chicago-type guys? (00:31:46) - Break! (00:32:07) - We're back, and Frank wants his damn money (00:38:13) - Okla and Leo, from one father figure to an aspiring one. (00:51:36) - On the subject of these corrupt dirtbag cops. (00:55:20) - The original Michael Mann Diner Scene. (01:09:37) - The California job, and getting comfy in the suburbs. (01:13:29) - How many fingers am I holding up? (01:17:48) - Chaos in the adoption agency. (01:21:34) - Refusing to grease the wheels. (01:29:10) - Okla, we hardly knew ya, but now we have a baby, so it all evens out. (01:32:07) - Ditching those goofy cops. (01:40:01) - Finally, the big job. (01:52:05) - My money is in your pocket. (02:00:24) - Bye bye, Belush. Bye bye, old life. (02:09:41) - Going tactical in the Chicago suburbs. (02:15:39) - Final thoughts. (02:21:02) - Housekeeping for next week. (02:22:55) - Outro.