Once a Thief (1965 film)

Once a Thief (1965 film) is an American neo-noir crime drama directed by Ralph Nelson and starring Alain Delon in his first Hollywood role. The film, based on the novel *Scratch a Thief* by Zekial Marko, explores themes of redemption and the inescapable pull of a criminal past within the gritty underworld of San Francisco. Featuring a score by Lalo Schifrin and cinematography by Robert B. Hauser, it blends European sensibility with American film noir conventions.

Plot

Eddie Pedak, a reformed car thief played by Alain Delon, struggles to build an honest life in San Francisco with his wife, Kristine, portrayed by Ann-Margret. His past catches up to him when his former partner-in-crime, Walter Pedak, and a ruthless detective, Mike Vido, pressure him to participate in one last heist. The film's narrative follows Eddie's desperate attempts to protect his family and his newfound legitimacy, culminating in a tense confrontation that forces him to confront the violent consequences of his former life. The plot is a classic noir trajectory, examining whether a man can truly escape his destiny.

Cast

The film features an international cast headlined by French star Alain Delon as the protagonist Eddie Pedak. Swedish-American actress and singer Ann-Margret plays his devoted wife, Kristine Pedak. Veteran American actor Van Heflin appears as the persistent and morally ambiguous police inspector, Mike Vido. The menacing role of Eddie's criminal brother, Walter Pedak, is performed by Jack Palance. The supporting cast includes John Davis Chandler as Sargatanas, Tony Musante as Frank, and Steve Mitchell as a police sergeant, adding depth to the film's criminal and law enforcement circles.

Production

Principal photography for *Once a Thief* took place on location in San Francisco, utilizing the city's iconic hills and waterfront to enhance its noir atmosphere. The film was produced by Jacques Bar for Filmways and marked a significant Hollywood venture for its European lead. Director Ralph Nelson, known for dramas like *Lilies of the Field*, adapted the screenplay from Zekial Marko's novel. The jazz-inflected score was composed by Lalo Schifrin, who was concurrently gaining fame for his work on the *Mission: Impossible* television series. The production aimed to capitalize on Alain Delon's rising international stardom following successes in French cinema.

Release

The film was distributed by Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer and had its theatrical release in 1965. It was marketed as a sleek, modern crime thriller highlighting the star power of Alain Delon and Ann-Margret. Following its initial run, *Once a Thief* entered television syndication and later became available on home video formats. Its release coincided with a period of Hollywood's interest in morally complex antiheroes and stylish crime narratives, positioning it alongside other films of the mid-1960s that blurred the lines between classic noir and contemporary drama.

Reception

Upon release, critical reception was mixed; some reviewers praised Alain Delon's performance and the film's moody San Francisco ambiance, while others found the plot conventional. The film did not achieve major commercial success but has since garnered a cult appreciation for its cast and as an example of 1960s neo-noir. The work of Lalo Schifrin and cinematographer Robert B. Hauser has been noted for contributing to its tense atmosphere. Over time, the film has been recognized as an interesting curio in the careers of its principal actors and director Ralph Nelson.

Category:1965 films Category:American neo-noir films Category:Films directed by Ralph Nelson Category:Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer films