Turturro: Pickpocketing & Physicality

John Turturro's new film, "The Only Living Pickpocket in New York," premiering Friday, centers on his fascination with body language and movement. Turturro portrays Harry, a pickpocket tasked with recovering a stolen flash drive from a tech mogul. The actor emphasized how studying pickpockets involves observing how individuals move and interact. He noted that characters' behaviors, even subtle ones like recovering from a fall, reveal their essence.

Harry's interactions, including a dance for his girlfriend Rosie, illuminate his character and past life, which involved both pickpocketing and dancing. The narrative also projects into 2026, highlighting Harry's struggle with people carrying less cash. He now returns discarded wallets with licenses and cards, inspired by a personal experience where his mother's wallet was returned by a stranger.

Filmed in New York City, the movie features Steve Buscemi as Harry's fence and an appearance by Tatiana Maslany as Harry's estranged daughter. Maslany praised Turturro's deep embodiment of the character, noting the palpable emotions present in their shared scenes, reflecting Harry's complex history and relationships.