Pickpocket is a 1959 movie directed by Robert Bresson.
WHAT HAPPENS?
Michel, a writer, learns the art of pickpocketing. He masters his skill as a means of survival and form of expression.
ONE LINE REVIEW
Pickpocket is both a slick movie about stealing and a psychological study of loneliness.
THE ACTORS
Martin LaSalle plays the title character, giving Michel a detached, sometimes aloof nature. Both the actor and character are not overly emotive – perhaps this is by design, but likely more the effect of LaSalle’s inexperience. Either way, the performance is interesting. There are layers of intrigue hidden in the character but we’re never fully allowed to examine them. Michel has few friends and a strained relationship with his mother. He is completely engrossed in his philosophical morality that society needs thieves, which he uses to justify his criminal behaviors.
Marika Green’s Jeanne is a subtly fascinating character. In some respects, she’s a one-note character. She’s a neighbor of and eventual caretaker for Michel’s mother. She doesn’t understand Michel, but also feels drawn to him. As time passes, she is unmarried with a baby. Michel now reenters her orbit. As the movie closes, he faces jail time – Green’s Jeanne expresses a frustration with her potential suitor, but also reveals a hint of freedom and possible relief.
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