If you were captivated by the tense, minimalist brilliance of Robert Bresson's Pickpocket (1959), you're not alone. This French crime drama, with its stark realism and moral ambiguity, has influenced countless filmmakers. In this article, we explore 10 movies and shows that share its themes of crime, redemption, and existential introspection—perfect for fans craving more of that gripping, character-driven storytelling.
The Asphalt Jungle (1950)
Description: A detailed portrayal of a heist gone wrong, focusing on the personalities and motivations of the criminals, highlighting their vulnerabilities and the inevitability of their downfall.
Fact: The film is often cited as one of the first to humanize criminals, making them more than just villains.
Watch Now 
The Lavender Hill Mob (1951)
Description: A clever and humorous take on a heist, where an unassuming man orchestrates a gold robbery, blending wit with the thrill of the crime.
Fact: The film won an Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay, showcasing its sharp writing.
Watch Now 
The Killing (1956)
Description: A meticulously planned heist that unravels due to human error and unforeseen circumstances, showcasing the tension between professionalism and personal flaws.
Fact: The film's non-linear narrative structure was groundbreaking at the time and influenced many future crime films.
Watch Now 
Le Doulos (1962)
Description: A gritty crime thriller filled with betrayals and double-crosses, emphasizing the moral ambiguity and fatalistic tone of the criminal underworld.
Fact: The title 'Le Doulos' is French slang for a police informant, a central theme in the film.
Watch Now 
Charade (1963)
Description: A blend of romance, suspense, and crime, with a plot revolving around hidden money, mistaken identities, and a series of thrilling chases.
Fact: Often referred to as 'the best Hitchcock film Hitchcock never made,' due to its suspenseful and stylish execution.
Watch Now 
The Thomas Crown Affair (1968)
Description: A stylish and cerebral heist film where the protagonist's charm and intelligence are as much a part of the plot as the crime itself.
Fact: The film is famous for its chess scene, which is both a metaphor for the cat-and-mouse game between the characters and a pivotal moment in the plot.
Watch Now 
The Sicilian Clan (1969)
Description: A sophisticated crime drama involving a meticulously planned heist, alliances, and betrayals, set against a backdrop of organized crime.
Fact: The film features an iconic score by Ennio Morricone, adding to its tense atmosphere.
Watch Now 
The Italian Job (1969)
Description: A heist film with a focus on teamwork, clever planning, and a touch of humor, culminating in a memorable and chaotic getaway.
Fact: The film's iconic Mini Cooper chase scene was one of the most expensive sequences filmed at the time.
Watch Now 
The Sting (1973)
Description: A con artist caper filled with twists and turns, where elaborate schemes and deception drive the narrative, keeping the audience guessing until the end.
Fact: The film won seven Academy Awards, including Best Picture, and revived interest in ragtime music.
Watch Now 
The Taking of Pelham One Two Three (1974)
Description: A tense and realistic portrayal of a hostage situation on a subway train, focusing on the psychological battle between the criminals and authorities.
Fact: The film's title refers to the train's designation (Pelham Bay Park line, departing at 1:23 PM), a detail often overlooked by viewers.
Watch Now 
