Once a Thief 1965
"always a target, for either side of the law!"
Directed by Ralph Nelson, *Once a Thief (1965)* is a gripping crime drama that traces the tense struggle of Eddie, a former convict, as he tries to leave his criminal past behind and start anew in San Francisco with his wife Kristine and young daughter Kathy.
Director: Ralph Nelson
Cast
Alain Delon
Eddie Pedak
Ann-Margret
Kristine Pedak
Van Heflin
Inspector Mike Vido
Jack Palance
Walter Pedak
John Davis Chandler
James Arthur Sargatanas, Walter's Henchman
Jeff Corey
Lieutenant Kebner
Steve Mitchell
Frank Kane
Tammy Locke
Kathy Pedak
Tony Musante
Cleveland 'Cleve' Shoenstein
Zekial Marko
Luke
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Once a Thief (1965) about?
*Once a Thief (1965)* follows Eddie, a former criminal, as he attempts to forge a quiet life with his family in San Francisco. His efforts are threatened by Mike Vido, a determined police officer who sees Eddie's past as an unfinished sentence. The film delves into Eddie's struggle to break free from cycles of crime and authority that refuse to let him go.
Who directed Once a Thief?
Ralph Nelson directed *Once a Thief (1965)*, helming a crime drama known for its gritty atmosphere and morally complex storytelling.
Who stars in Once a Thief?
The film features Alain Delon as Eddie, with Ann-Margret and Van Heflin co-starring, alongside Jack Palance delivering a memorable performance.
Is Once a Thief (1965) worth watching?
With its blend of crime drama, moral dilemmas, and strong performances, *Once a Thief (1965)* offers a gripping watch for fans of gritty thrillers. While not widely rated, its themes of redemption and relentless pursuit give it lasting appeal.
How long is Once a Thief?
Once a Thief (1965) runs for 107 minutes.
🎥 Trailer
About Once a Thief (1965) — A gripping crime drama of redemption and relentless pursuit
Directed by Ralph Nelson, *Once a Thief (1965)* is a gripping crime drama that traces the tense struggle of Eddie, a former convict, as he tries to leave his criminal past behind and start anew in San Francisco with his wife Kristine and young daughter Kathy. The film's atmospheric tension simmers beneath the city's bustling surface as relentless police officer Mike Vido closes in, determined to drag Eddie back into the life he's desperate to escape. Blending moral ambiguity with hard-edged realism, the movie explores themes of redemption, loyalty, and the inescapable grip of fate, all while delivering a suspenseful narrative driven by sharp performances and a moody urban backdrop.
With its morally complex protagonist and high-stakes confrontation between law and desperation, *Once a Thief (1965)* stands as a compelling entry in the crime thriller genre. Alain Delon delivers a magnetic performance as Eddie, while Ann-Margret and Van Heflin add layers of emotional depth to the story. The film's taut pacing and sharp dialogue heighten the suspense, making it a must-watch for fans of gritty, character-driven dramas.
