John Turturro Shines in Noah Segan’s Captivating Debut, ‘The Only Living Pickpocket In New York’ – Sundance Film Festival Review
“I lived my life in people’s pockets,” reflects Harry, played by John Turturro, a small-town thief navigating the bustling streets of New York. In The Only Living Pickpocket in New York, the film unfolds as both intriguing and poignant, exploring themes of loss and nostalgia against the backdrop of a changing city.
From the outset, the film establishes its melancholic tone, presenting Harry as a spectral figure, his hands working skillfully in search of wallets and handbags. Yet despite his keen instincts, he experiences setbacks, such as when he attempts to sell a fake stolen watch. “But the guy was legit — he had platinum cards!” he laments, highlighting the film’s blend of humor and pathos.
As tensions escalate, Harry finds himself in a precarious situation after stealing a bag from a stranger’s vintage car. His victim, Dylan (Will Price), a member of a powerful Manhattan crime family, embodies the generational shift in organized crime. While Dylan embraces modern technology and crypto assets, Harry clings to outdated methods, leading to his immediate quest to recover a crucial piece of tech that remains alien to his world.
This narrative, directed by Noah Segan—known for his collaborations with filmmaker Rian Johnson—offers a compelling debut. Infused with stylistic elements reminiscent of blaxploitation and the darker tones of Spike Lee’s 25th Hour, Segan’s direction reveals a deep exploration of identity and loss, imbuing the film with a serious undertone that resonates throughout its comedic moments.
The Only Living Pickpocket in New York probes the intricate relationship between criminality, art, and society. It invites viewers to reflect on the complex emotions surrounding crime, nostalgia, and the romanticized image of the rogue. The film captures a bygone era characterized by tangible cash transactions while also serving as a tribute to the independent Manhattan film scene of the 1980s.
As the awards season approaches, The Only Living Pickpocket in New York emerges as a strong contender, with John Turturro’s performance poised to attract attention.
Title: The Only Living Pickpocket in New York
Festival: Sundance (Premieres)
Director-screenwriter: Noah Segan
Cast: John Turturro, Steve Buscemi, Giancarlo Esposito, Will Price, Tatiana Maslany
Sales agent: T Street
Running time: 1 hr 28 mins
