Thief of Hearts

The 1984 American romantic crime drama thriller, Thief of Hearts, is directed by Douglas Day Stewart, who's popularly known for writing the romantic drama 'An Officer and a Gentleman'. This movie stars some familiar faces including Steven Bauer, Barbara Williams, and John Getz, among other remarkable performers. As a blend of crime, drama, and romance, Thief of Hearts, effectively captures the tension and excitement evoked by a love triangle, leading to intriguing story turns that lure viewers deeper into the film's universe.

The story revolves around Steven Bauer, who plays the role of Scott Muller – a chic, hard-nosed professional thief known not just for his charm and good looks but also his capability to plan and execute formidable heists. Bauer's character personifies the intrigue and dark allure commonly associated with underworld figures, thus bringing a provocative charm to the narrative.

John Getz plays the character of Ray Davis, an amiable though somewhat dull, children's author deeply absorbed in his world of fables and fantasies. Getz manifests the personality of a loving husband and unassuming individual, offering an interesting contrast to Bauer's character. In the midst of this masculine combination, enters Barbara Williams, who plays the role of the classy interior designer and Ray’s wife, Mickey Davis. Williams portrays an independent and strong woman caught in the escalating conflict and rising tension that brew between her life and those of the two men.

Scott, always looking for his next big heist, incidentally burgles the Davis residence and ends up stealing more than just valuable objects. During the theft, he stumbles upon Mickey's personal diary that is filled with her most intimate thoughts and hidden dreams. Intrigued, Scott immerses himself in Mickey's world through her diary, subsequently becoming obsessed with her. This exploration of her deepest thoughts and dreams allows the viewers to unravel Mickey’s character layer by layer, adding a psychological facet to the traditional crime-thriller narrative.

Scott then ingeniously sets about making her dreams come true. He uses the information from the diary, meticulously imitating Mickey's fantasy man. The tactics he deploys create a believable character which Mickey finds irresistibly comforting and familiar. As Scott’s obsession grows, the tension between him, Mickey, and Ray escalifies, driving the plot towards an intense climax.

The film's cinematography splendidly captures the 1980s aesthetic, juxtaposing stark and grimy underworld elements against the polished, upper-class life. The urban landscapes, architecture, and interior design become a character in their own right, providing an authentic backdrop to this maze of passion, obsession, and treachery. The film's dreamy synthesized soundtrack, courtaesy of Harold Faltermeyer, adds an extra dimension of suspense that makes the movie a total 80s cinematic experience.

Thief of Hearts is particularly remarkable for its exploration of the boundaries of privacy, infidelity, and heartbreak, reflecting an astutely poignant insight into human relationships. Especially impressive in the narrative is the transition of the characters and the evolution of their relationships, as their secrets and fantasies unspool. This movie delves deeper into the realm of relationships and moral values, rather than focusing only on the crime aspect.

All in all, Thief of Hearts is likely to appeal to viewers who find themselves drawn to romance, drama, and crime genres, with its enticing storyline offering a roller coaster experience. Despite its somewhat nostalgic appeal today, it doesn't shy from discussing serious themes and dilemmas and leaves the audience pondering long after the credits roll, a testament to the timeless tale that it truly is. Whether you're a fan of crime thrillers or love stories, this film's enthralling plot promises you an engaging cinematic journey into the heart of human relationships and desire.