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Set in Hong Kong and Vancouver, the story follows Mac Ramsey and Li Ann Tsei, lovers and professional thieves who are separated while fleeing the powerful Hong Kong underworld crime lord who raised and trained them. After being imprisoned in Hong Kong, Mac is forcefully recruited into a clandestine international crime-fighting unit by a hard-nosed, menacing Director. He is teamed in Vancouver with Li Ann, who thought Mac was dead, and her new fiancé Victor Mansfield, an ex-cop who is attracted to the unorthodox methods of the agency. Conflict flares between Mac and Victor as the trio take on their assignment. They soon learn that their principal target is their foster brother Michael Tang, who had been given Li Ann as his future wife and who has vowed to hunt down the pair for their disloyalty to the “family”.
Duration: 92 min
Released: 1996
IMDb Rating: 5.3/10 (1,329 Votes)
Genre: Action, Crime, Dubbed Movies, Thriller
Stars: Nicholas Lea, Sandrine Holt, Ivan Sergei, Robert Ito
Directors: John Woo
Writers: Glenn Davis, William Laurin
Year: 1996
Once a Thief (1950): A Classic Noir Crime Thriller
Introduction
Released in 1950, Once a Thief is a riveting crime thriller that beautifully amalgamates elements of action and suspense, firmly placing itself in the noir genre. Directed by the talented Wendy L. Weintraub, this movie takes viewers on a gripping journey into the underbelly of crime, deception, and redemption. The film stars the charismatic Cesar Romero, along with the compelling performances of June Havoc and Marie McDonald.
Plot Overview
The heart of Once a Thief revolves around the life of Eddie Pedak (played by Cesar Romero), a seasoned and suave criminal who finds himself trapped in a dangerous web of crime and betrayal. Eddie’s charm and wit make him a formidable figure in the criminal world, but a heist gone wrong forces him to rethink his life choices.
June Havoc plays the role of Peggy, a woman deeply entwined in Eddie’s complicated world. Her character adds emotional depth and human vulnerability to the intense storyline. Marie McDonald’s presence as Brity adds a contrasting element, bringing nuances of glamour and mystique.
The film's narrative masterfully unfolds with a series of twists, suspenseful moments, and intense confrontations. It explores themes of trust, loyalty, and the possibility of redemption even when one has walked a dark path. The story also captures the gritty menace and moral ambiguity characteristic of the crime thrillers of the era.
Direction and Writing
The directorial vision of Wendy L. Weintraub brings a crisp and engaging pace to Once a Thief. Being an expert in crime dramas, Weintraub skillfully balances action sequences with character-driven drama, avoiding clichés and ensuring that the audience remains hooked throughout.
The screenplay crafts dialogue that is sharp and indicative of the film noir style—taut exchanges that reveal character motives and advance the plot. The writers successfully blend suspense with moments of emotional vulnerability, giving depth to what might otherwise be a straightforward crime story.
Cast and Performances
Cesar Romero, in the lead as Eddie Pedak, delivers one of his most memorable performances. Known for his suave demeanor and versatility, Romero brings a mixture of charm, danger, and pathos to the role, making the character simultaneously likable and enigmatic.
June Havoc, portraying Peggy, brings emotional intensity and complexity, providing a strong female presence that complements Romero’s performance. Marie McDonald’s portrayal of Brity adds a layer of allure and mystery, enhancing the film's atmospheric tension.
Genre and Style
Once a Thief firmly belongs to the crime thriller and action genres with underlying noir influences. The movie’s somber tone, shadowy lighting, and morally ambiguous characters are classic hallmarks of film noir. The tension is maintained with well-executed chase sequences, confrontations, and moments dripping with suspense.
Impact and Legacy
While not the most widely known film of its era, Once a Thief remains a noteworthy example of mid-20th-century crime cinema. Its engaging storytelling, strong performances, and atmospheric direction have earned it a place among enthusiasts of film noir and classic thrillers.
Additional Information
Conclusion
Once a Thief (1950) is a must-watch for fans of classic crime thrillers and film noir. The combination of a compelling story, charismatic performances, and the skilled direction of Wendy L. Weintraub makes it a film that stands the test of time. Whether you are a cinephile interested in the golden era of Hollywood crime cinema or a casual viewer seeking an entertaining thriller with depth, this movie offers an engrossing cinematic experience.
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