A heist movie (also known as a caper movie if it contains comedy) is a film genre that belongs to the thriller group. Films in this genre deal with the planning, preparation and ultimately the execution of an often spectacular heist, whereby the action is shown from the perspective of the robber or robbers, who are usually also sympathetic figures.
A heist movie (also known as a caper movie if it contains comedy) is a film genre that belongs to the thriller group. Films in this genre deal with the planning, preparation and ultimately the execution of an often spectacular heist, whereby the action is shown from the perspective of the robber or robbers, who are usually also sympathetic figures.
The usual targets of such robberies are banks, museums, jewelry stores or private individuals with items of high financial or sentimental value. It is typical that the viewer learns early on which object is to be stolen and what the difficulties are in obtaining it, such as complicated alarm systems, security guards or well-secured rooms or safes. The important content of the film is then which tricks, technical aids or artistic skills are to be used to overcome the obstacles. However, the use of physical violence or even murder to achieve the goal is atypical. Setbacks and rescheduling are not uncommon.
If it is a group of robbers, there is often internal tension or even betrayal.
The term “heist” is American slang and generally means robbery or assault. The word is derived from “to hoist,” which may be explained by analogy with “shoplifting” or giving someone a leg up to climb to a higher window.
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