Dive into the world of audacious heists and masterminds with our curated list of the top 10 biopics about real-life thefts. These films not only provide a thrilling narrative but also offer a glimpse into the minds of those who dared to challenge the law. From bank robberies to art thefts, these stories are as fascinating as they are true, making them a must-watch for anyone intrigued by the art of the heist.

The Italian Job (1969)
Description: This classic film is loosely based on the real-life robbery of gold bullion from a security van in Turin, Italy. It's a heist biopic for its depiction of a meticulously planned and executed theft.
Fact: The film's famous Mini Cooper chase scene was inspired by the actual escape route used by the robbers.


The Thomas Crown Affair (1999)
Description: While not strictly a biopic, this film is inspired by the real-life art thefts of the 1960s, particularly the theft of a Monet painting. It's a heist film that captures the sophistication and allure of high-stakes theft.
Fact: The original 1968 film was also inspired by the same real-life events, making this a rare case of a heist biopic with two notable adaptations.


The Bank Job (2008)
Description: This film recounts the 1971 Baker Street robbery in London, where a group of thieves tunneled into a bank vault. It's included in this list for its portrayal of a real-life heist that was both daring and meticulously planned.
Fact: The film suggests that the robbers might have stumbled upon compromising photos of a member of the British Royal Family, adding an extra layer of intrigue.


The Score (2001)
Description: While not a direct biopic, it's inspired by the real-life thefts of the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts. It's included for its portrayal of a seasoned thief pulling off one last job.
Fact: Robert De Niro and Edward Norton both learned to play the piano for their roles, adding depth to their characters.


Catch Me If You Can (2002)
Description: This film tells the story of Frank Abagnale Jr., who before his 19th birthday, successfully performed cons worth millions of dollars by posing as a Pan Am pilot, a doctor, and a legal prosecutor. It's a heist biopic because it showcases one of the most elaborate cons in history.
Fact: The real Frank Abagnale Jr. served as a consultant on the film, and many of the events depicted were based on his own accounts.


The Art of the Steal (2013)
Description: This film is inspired by the real-life theft of the art collection of Dr. Albert C. Barnes. It's a heist biopic for its depiction of art theft and the subsequent legal battles.
Fact: The film features real-life art thieves as consultants, ensuring the authenticity of the heist scenes.


The Great St. Louis Bank Robbery (1959)
Description: This film is based on the real-life 1953 robbery of the Southwest Bank in St. Louis, Missouri. It's included for its portrayal of a meticulously planned bank heist.
Fact: The film was shot in the actual bank that was robbed, adding to its realism.


The Brink's Job (1978)
Description: This film recounts the 1950 Brink's robbery in Boston, where a group of thieves made off with over $1.2 million. It's a heist biopic that delves into the planning and execution of one of the largest cash robberies in U.S. history.
Fact: The film was one of the first to use real-life criminals as consultants to ensure authenticity.


The Great Train Robbery (1978)
Description: Based on the real-life 1963 robbery of a Royal Mail train, this film captures the meticulous planning and execution of one of the most famous heists in British history. It's a classic heist biopic that showcases the audacity of the criminals.
Fact: The film was shot on location where the actual robbery took place, adding authenticity to the scenes.


The Heist (1989)
Description: This film is based on the true story of a group of thieves who rob a casino in Atlantic City. It's a heist biopic for its depiction of a real-life casino heist.
Fact: The film was shot in the actual casino where the heist took place, providing an authentic backdrop.
