Watch The Thief

Set in post-Soviet Russia, "The Thief" is an emotionally charged drama that tells the story of a young boy, Sanya (Mikhail Filipchuk), who is left alone with his father, a former soldier, after his mother abandons them. Sanya's life is thrown into turmoil when his father is sent to jail, leaving him alone on the streets of Moscow. Struggling to survive, the boy soon meets a mysterious man named Katya (Yekaterina Rednikova) who takes him under her wing and introduces him to the art of thievery, teaching him how to pick pockets and steal from unsuspecting tourists.

But Sanya's life takes an unexpected turn when he comes face to face with the man known only as "The Thief" (Vladimir Mashkov), a slick and charismatic professional who takes an interest in the young boy's potential. The Thief sees something in Sanya and brings him under his wing, teaching him the tricks of the trade and offering him the opportunity to live a life of luxury, away from the poverty and hardship he's known his entire life.

However, as Sanya becomes more deeply involved in the world of crime, he begins to see the darker side of his mentor's life. He witnesses violence, betrayal and corruption, and starts to question whether this lifestyle is really worth the price he has to pay. As he struggles to come to terms with his own conscience, he must also face the fact that he is being hunted by the authorities, who are determined to bring down The Thief once and for all.

Despite its slow pace, "The Thief" is a beautifully crafted film that explores themes of loyalty, betrayal, and redemption. The cinematography is stunning, with director Pavel Chukhrai using light and shadow to great effect, creating a moody and atmospheric setting that perfectly captures the grit and desperation of Soviet-era Russia.

The performances are equally impressive, with Vladimir Mashkov delivering a powerful and nuanced portrayal of the titular character, blending charisma, vulnerability and menace to create a complex and compelling figure. Yekaterina Rednikova is equally impressive as Katya, bringing depth and warmth to a character who could have been one-note.

But it's the performance by young Mikhail Filipchuk, who was only 8 years old at the time of filming, that really steals the show. Despite his youth, Filipchuk delivers a mature and affecting performance, showing remarkable range and emotional depth as he struggles with the challenges of growing up in a world where morality is murky and choices are limited.

Overall, "The Thief" is a gripping and thought-provoking film that offers a haunting glimpse into a world that has long since disappeared. It's a powerful reminder that no matter how desperate our circumstances may be, the choices we make will ultimately define us.