The Mechanics of the Perfect Score
Join film scholars Luka Arsenjuk and Tim Palmer with host Andy Nelson for an exciting exploration of heist films. From meticulous planning to dramatic execution, this subgenre has captivated audiences for decades with its clever schemes, charismatic criminals, and intricate plots.

The conversation delves into what defines a heist film, from assembling specialized teams and detailed planning to the tension-filled execution and often devastating aftermath. The guests examine how elements like technology, professionalism, and the relationship between individualism and collective action shape these stories of elaborate robberies.

Ten Essential Heist Films Through the Decades
The discussion covers ten landmark films: The Asphalt Jungle (1950), Rififi (1955), The Killing (1956), Bob le Flambeur (1956), Le Cercle Rouge (1970), The Taking of Pelham 123 (1974), Thief (1981), Ocean's Eleven (2001), Inside Man (2006), and Widows (2018). The public episode explores five of these classics – The Asphalt Jungle, Le Cercle Rouge, Thief, Ocean's Eleven, and Widows – while members can enjoy analysis of all ten films.

A Genre That Keeps Evolving
Though heist films emerged from crime film and film noir roots in the 1950s, they continue to evolve and reinvent themselves. The episode concludes by examining how modern filmmakers incorporate social commentary and diverse perspectives while maintaining the core thrills that make these criminal capers so compelling.

Want to hear complete conversations like this every month? Join Cinema Scope at trustory.fm/join for just $5/month or $55/year. Members get early, ad-free access to all podcasts in The Next Reel family, plus exclusive bonus content and extended episodes.

🎬 Deep Dive

• 👤 Meet Luka Arsenjuk: University of Maryland, Cinema & Media Studies | Website
• 👤 Meet Tim Palmer: University of Utah, Chair: College of Fine Arts | Film Matters Magazine | Wikipedia | Website
• 🎥 Full Discussion on YouTube
• 🍿 Essential Films:
  • The Asphalt Jungle - Apple TV | Amazon | Letterboxd
  • Le Cercle Rouge - Apple TV | Amazon | Letterboxd
  • Thief - Apple TV | Amazon | Letterboxd
  • Ocean’s Eleven - Apple TV | Amazon | Letterboxd
  • Widows - Apple TV | Amazon | Letterboxd
• ☑️ Charles Kunken’s 16 Conventions of Heist Films
• 📋 View Our Full List on Letterboxd
• 🎞️ More to Explore: Luka Arsenjuk's Recommended Films
• 🎞️ More to Explore: Tim Palmer’s Recommended Films

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