The Pickpocket (1970 film)

The Pickpocket is a 1970 crime drama film directed by Ding Shan-hsi. A Hong Kong production, it is also known by the Chinese title Xiao shou.

The film tells the story of Ah Fai, a young man driven to petty theft in order to survive. He becomes embroiled in the criminal underworld of Hong Kong’s pickpockets, learning the tricks of the trade and the dangers of the life. The narrative explores themes of poverty, desperation, and the moral ambiguities faced by those living on the margins of society.

The film is noted for its gritty realism and its depiction of the seedy underbelly of Hong Kong. It showcases the techniques and strategies employed by pickpockets, offering a glimpse into their world and the challenges they face. While not as widely known internationally as some other Hong Kong crime films of the era, The Pickpocket remains a significant work within the genre and a reflection of social issues prevalent in Hong Kong at the time.