- Genre
- Action
- Year
- 1991
- Runtime
- 1h48
0
Once a Thief
Loyalty, laughter, and gunfire collide in a stylish heist adventure.
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Synopsis
"Once a Thief" is a dynamic 1991 Hong Kong action-comedy film directed by John Woo, starring Chow Yun-Fat. The story centers around three skilled art thieves who share a close bond, planning and executing high-stakes heists with great style and precision. Their camaraderie is tested when unexpected twists and complications arise, forcing them to confront their loyalty to each other amidst thrilling action sequences and clever plot turns. The film blends exhilarating gunfights, sharp humor, and emotional depth, showcasing Woo's signature blend of stylized action and heartfelt storytelling, set against vibrant urban backdrops.
Cast
Reviews
Critical reception of "Once a Thief" has been mixed to moderately positive. On Rotten Tomatoes, it holds a 60% rating, reflecting a split view among critics—some praising its energetic action and chemistry between leads, while others find its plot somewhat lacking in depth. IMDb's audience rating is 6.7/10, indicating generally favorable but measured approval from viewers. Critics have widely appreciated Chow Yun-Fat's charismatic performance and John Woo's trademark action choreography, noted for its slick style and inventive gunplay. However, some reviews point out that the narrative sometimes leans on familiar tropes and the character development is underexplored. For instance, a review from AllMovie highlights the film's "infectious energy and sleek visuals" but also mentions that "the story struggles to engage beyond the action." Despite its flaws, "Once a Thief" is often regarded as a fun, stylish caper that blends humor with Woo's action expertise, making it a notable entry in early 90s Hong Kong cinema.
