Breaking In

Breaking In is a 1989 American crime-comedy film directed by Bill Forsyth and starring Burt Reynolds, Casey Siemaszko and Sheila Kelley. It presents a unique twist on the typical heist genre and probes deeper into the lives of the characters rather than focusing on the thrilling act of the break-in itself.

The film’s star is the seasoned actor Burt Reynolds, who plays Ernie Mullins, a 60-year-old expert safe-cracker. The character is in the twilight of his career, yet his passion for his unique profession remains undiminished. Contrary to the stereotype, Ernie isn't your typical hardened criminal. Instead, he's a warm-hearted gentleman who adheres to an unwritten code of ethics. What makes Reynolds's performance truly outstanding is his knack for summoning the character's subtleties, charm, and wit, which lends the film a refreshing slice-of-life feel despite its criminal undertones.

The affable Ernie's life takes an interesting turn when he crosses paths with the young, naive, and eager-to-learn Mike (played by Casey Siemaszko). Despite his zeal, Mike lacks real-world experience and common sense. Nonetheless, he does possess a certain raw ambition, and it's this quality that piques Ernie's interest. Reluctantly, Ernie decides to tutor him in the art of breaking in.

It's this unconventional teacher-student relationship that forms the crux of the movie, as Ernie imparts his wisdom and skills to the inexperienced Mike. Reynolds and Siemaszko strike up excellent chemistry on screen, creating plenty of heartwarming and humorous moments. Their comedically contrasting personalities serve as a fruitful source of entertainment throughout.

The female lead in the film is Carrie, played by Sheila Kelley. Her character adds another layer of complexity to the plot. Carrie is Mike's girlfriend, a free-spirited dancer, and waitress who also takes interest in Ernie's world. Kelley manages to balance Carrie's enthusiasm and vulnerability with finesse. Although the character is not directly involved in the criminal activities, she is an integral part of the narrative, further enriching it with emotional depth.

Furthermore, this film diverges from usual crime dramas where the focus remains on the climax or the motive behind the crime. Instead, the director, Bill Forsyth, demonstrates his expertise in character-driven storytelling by accentuating the process and day-to-day realities of Ernie's and Mike's lives. The attention to detail in illustrating their craft, the delicate dance they must perform to bypass alarms, and the clever ways they manipulate the environment to their advantage paints an intriguing yet humorous picture of professional burglars.

Additionally, the director successfully breaks down the myth surrounding the glamorization of theft by highlighting the mundanity and laboriousness involved in the process. In doing so, he enables the audience to form a connection with the characters, even prompting them to root for these criminals.

The screenplay, written by John Sayles, is witty, emotionally engaging, and deeply respectful of its characters. It combines elements of humor, drama, and pathos to create a well-rounded picture that's as entertaining as it is enlightening. The dialogue is crisp, the narrative insightful, and the pacing is just right, making it a joy ride from start to finish.

The backdrop of the film is set in Portland, Oregon, which gives it a charming, seedy ambiance that perfectly complements the narrative. The cinematography does an impeccable job of capturing the city's darkened alleyways, dimly lit bars, and quaint neighborhood corners, creating a visual narrative that complements the film's theme flawlessly. The mellow jazz soundtrack by Michael Gibbs further enhances the mood, giving it an additional touch of sophistication.

Despite its thematic darkness, Breaking In succeeds in being a heartening and humorous tale about friendship, mentorship, and the search for purpose in the most unusual circumstances. The performances are top-notch, especially Reynolds, who delivers one of his career's finest performances, accompanied by Siemaszko's convincing portrayal of a young rookie. Viewers are in for a real treat as they get to experience a crime-comedy that breaks the mold and provides unique insights into the life of a professional robber. It’s an unforgettable film that strongly stands the test of time.