A heist film usually has the consists of the characters trying to steal something but with an intricate plot included. A twist on these films with comical elements are called caper films. The word ‘heist’ came from American slang and is derived from the word ‘hoist’ meaning to lift relating back to stealing and shoplifting. These films generally portray a previously planned and specific robbery with the film showing how the group was assembled, all the way through to the falling out or, rarely, getting caught.

Heist movies go all the way back to the 1900’s with the classic the ‘ Great Train Robbery ’ and all the way through the century with ‘ High Sierra ’ having the main character being caught out by the police and ‘ Rififi ’, inspiring the heist conventions that we see in the modern versions of today. Most if not all these original pivotal films motivated other directors to make their mark in the heist genre or even to remake some of films, talked about later on.

The genre today has seen directors either stick with the archetypes seen in the classics or interpret it in a different way and produce a film from another angle. Movies like ‘Inception’, stealing dreams, and even ‘National Treasure’ technically not a heist film but still get some conventions from the genre and its earlier movies are examples. However most audiences are able to tell the plot and the direction of the film are based on movies that have gone before.

Oceans 11 was originally released in 1960 and stars the members of the Rat Pack who plan to rob 5 Las Vegas casinos. The film was later remade in 2001 starring George Clooney and Brad Pitt the similarities being the same including the plot and the popularity of the actors in the film. The Italian job however is a bit different as the original is a British film. Released in 1969, it is actually based in Italy referring back to the name, using cars to help the gang steal gold. The remake takes a slightly different turn with the plot, making the cast all American and focusing on the revenge side of the job. Italy is still involved if only because one of the protagonist’s father dies there.

Heist films, especially of today, have certain conventions from the mise-en-scene all the way down to the characters. The characters all have different roles; The main character or leader who is the ‘brains’ behind the project and is the protagonist of the film. The computer geek or something along those lines, someone who understands technology inside and out and is able to manipulate almost anything in order to help the group with their heist The weapons expert, who deals in supplying the group with what they need in that area whether its guns or explosives The beautiful woman who has more to her than meets the eye. Could be used to manipulate other men but has the ‘brains’ to support her in the group. The villain who could actually be anybody in the movie, as heist films usually include a twist. It could be someone from the group or just the stereotypical villain.

Heist films traditionally take on a 3 act plot; the beginning usually introducing the characters to the audience as well as showing the initial planning for the robbery. The characters learn about the location, the getaway plans and even the reason for the heist taking place. The second act is when the plot starts to move forward, showing the heist itself. More often than not, the heist goes to plan but some twists and setbacks do occur. The third act is where the plot conventionally thickens. In earlier heist films the member of the group would be unlucky with their new found riches and get caught or be framed by someone who has inside links to their group. Yet more recently the conspirators are more successful, especially is who they are stealing from is portrayed as morally low.

The heist genre is known to include symbols to try and convey the themes of wealth, power and teamwork. The way this portrayal can be successful is by incorporating different technical aspects such as mise en scene and cinematography. The mise en scene would include what the different characters are wearing e.g. the ‘computer geek’ would wear the most casual clothes, and their role in the group contributes to their image. Cars, guns, computers and any buildings where the heist maybe be or where the planning is held are also important, with cinematography building the emphasis on those objects. A panning shot will usually give the audience a clear view of where the scene is and close ups of the guns or computer screens to highlight the significance of it for the movie. In addition, this helps to bring the audience closer to the heist, to maybe make them feel they are involved. Fast cars and quick editing cuts will be used to portray the adrenaline those committing the heist may feel and to simultaneously show the wealth and success they aim for. Guns and other weaponry highlight the power and ruthlessness of some of the characters e.g the leader or one that may often bend the rules. A few heist movies have a light humour to them and these icons bring the serious element of committing a crime back into the genre.