Harry in Your Pocket

Harry in Your Pocket is a captivating crime-comedy from 1973, starring known talents such as James Coburn, Michael Sarrazin, and Trish Van Devere. Directed by Bruce Geller, this eclectic rollercoaster ride delves into the underworld of professional pickpockets, their lifestyles, personal lives, and their creative but relentless modus operandi.

The movie centers around the charismatic and seasoned pickpocket Harry (James Coburn), who personifies both authority and charm. Harry operates under his own effective but unique set of rules and principles, lending his character an intriguing blend of mystery and allure. With his silvered tongue and quick fingers, Harry has perfected the art of stealing without leaving a trace. The real virtues of Coburn's performance lie in the calm, smooth persona he adopts as he goes about his well-oiled criminal operation, all while maintaining an almost business-like demeanor.

Next in line comes Ray (Michael Sarrazin), an ambitious, if not raw, youngster with a growing fascination for the pickpocketing business. Ray is an appealing mix of naive enthusiasm and ambitious cunning as he essentially apprentices under Harry, hoping to hone his craft and carve out his destiny in this illicit world. Through his ambitious eyes, the audience gets a fresh perspective into the complex workings of a pickpocket as Ray journeys from a green hopeful to a ready contender in this bold universe.

Trish Van Devere, playing the role of Sandy, brings an unexpected romantic twist to the story. Sandy is instantly charming and irresistibly attractive, drawing Ray and the audience into her orbit. However, the deep layers of her character gradually unravel, revealing a complex personality grappling with personal traumatic experiences, including an abusive relationship. Her arc brings a touch of seriousness and emotional depth amidst the movie's fast-paced, often humorous unfolding.

One other integral character in the film is Casey (Walter Pidgeon), who adds a comical element to the proceedings while simultaneously lending an aura of wisdom, being a now-retired pickpocket. Despite his jovial facade, Casey carries with him a palpable sense of the inherent risks of the trade, countering the romanticized vision of pickpocketing shown by Harry.

Set primarily in Seattle, the film provides breathtaking glimpses into the city life and its crowded places, which serve as the perfect backdrop to the story. The director effectively utilizes the scenic urban landscape to stage meticulously planned pickpocketing sequences, making for exhilarating viewing. Meanwhile, Bruce Geller’s attention to the minutiae of the pickpocket's art, including practical tricks and techniques, adds a rich realness to the movie that differentiates it from other generic crime stories.

Admittedly, “Harry in Your Pocket” doesn't shy away from interspersing darker themes within its comedic narrative. The movie tactfully explores the perils of pickpocketing, including the looming threat of arrest, the risk of violence, and deeper yet, the moral implications of such a lifestyle. In doing so, it offers a balanced portrayal of its characters' underworld and their survival, a life full of thrill, camaraderie, betrayal, and remorse.

The brilliant script, combined with the deft directorial execution and overall fantastic performances, makes Harry in Your Pocket a movie of strong character depth and intricate design. The audience is taken through a whirlwind of emotions as they navigate through the high-stakes tricks and dangerous escapades of professional pickpocketing. While undeniably a crime story, the underlying themes of camaraderie, fleeting romance, and the struggle to survive injustice lend the movie a heart-touching humanized angle.

In conclusion, Harry in Your Pocket is a true hidden gem from the 70s, a lively and jazzy exploration of the life of pickpockets, replete with sterling performances, a gripping storyline, and a captivating atmosphere. The movie is perfect for those looking for a departure from conventional crime dramas, promising a unique, unforgettable cinematic journey.