Logo What's After the Movie

The Painter and the Thief 2020

This compelling documentary follows a Czech artist who develops an unusual connection with the man who stole two of her paintings. She chooses to meet him and form a relationship, blurring the boundaries between artist and criminal. Through their interactions, the film explores themes of identity, trust, and the profound impact of art, offering a poignant look at shared humanity and the complexities of human connection.

This compelling documentary follows a Czech artist who develops an unusual connection with the man who stole two of her paintings. She chooses to meet him and form a relationship, blurring the boundaries between artist and criminal. Through their interactions, the film explores themes of identity, trust, and the profound impact of art, offering a poignant look at shared humanity and the complexities of human connection.

Does The Painter and the Thief have end credit scenes?

No!

The Painter and the Thief does not have end credit scenes. You can leave when the credits roll.

Meet the Full Cast and Actors of The Painter and the Thief

Explore the complete cast of The Painter and the Thief, including both lead and supporting actors. Learn who plays each character, discover their past roles and achievements, and find out what makes this ensemble cast stand out in the world of film and television.


Ratings and Reviews for The Painter and the Thief

See how The Painter and the Thief is rated across major platforms like IMDb, Metacritic, and TMDb. Compare audience scores and critic reviews to understand where The Painter and the Thief stands among top-rated movies in its genre.


Echo Score

The Movie Echo Score

80

The Painter and the Thief presents a compelling documentary that balances emotional depth with creative filmmaking. Critics applauded its arresting concept and emotional honesty, while users praised the profound bond between the artist and her subject. Some noted moments of narrative restraint and occasional structural opacity. Overall, it delivers a moving and thought-provoking portrait that resonates beyond its concluding frame.

The Movie Echo Score Breakdown for The Painter and the Thief

85
Echo Score

Art & Craft

The film’s art and craft are marked by a distinctive visual style and thoughtful creative choices. Critics described its arresting imagery and inventive storytelling, citing the director’s measured use of form and viewpoint. A few reviewers noted that withheld information can disrupt visual flow. Overall, it demonstrates a confident and creative documentary execution.

88
Echo Score

Character & Emotion

In terms of character and emotion, the documentary excels at conveying emotional honesty and human connection. Observers highlighted the nuanced portrayal of an unlikely friendship and the profound empathy between artist and subject. User feedback affirmed the film’s power as a deep character study with authentic emotional resonance. Ultimately, it leaves a lasting impression through its nuanced performances.

70
Echo Score

Story & Flow

In terms of story and flow, the film offers a series of surprising thematic turns and original insights into forgiveness. Reviewers praised its engaging exploration of human resilience, though several noted confounding timeline shifts and uneven pacing. Some users found the nonlinear structure left questions unanswered. Overall, it remains engaging but occasionally feels disjointed in narrative coherence.

75
Echo Score

Sensory Experience

In terms of sensory experience, the documentary employs a restrained sound design and cohesive visual palette to focus attention on emotional content. Critics noted the arresting cinematography and subtle editing choices that heighten intimacy, while a few observed that abrupt transitions can momentarily jar the viewer. Overall, the sensory elements support the film’s intimate and reflective tone.

65
Echo Score

Rewatch Factor

With regard to rewatch factor, the film’s emotional core and thematic richness encourage viewers to revisit key moments. The depth of the relationship and visual storytelling invite further reflection, yet the confounding narrative structure may limit some audience engagement on repeat viewings. Overall, it offers moderate lasting appeal for viewers drawn to character-driven documentaries.

Metacritic

79

Metascore

8.4

User Score

Rotten Tomatoes
review

97%

TOMATOMETER

review

85%

User Score

IMDb

7.5 /10

IMDb Rating

TMDB

73

%

User Score

Letterboxd

3.8

From 28 fan ratings

Movie Insider

3.67/5

From 3 fan ratings

Awards & Nominations for The Painter and the Thief

Explore awards

Discover all the awards and nominations received by The Painter and the Thief, from Oscars to film festival honors. Learn how The Painter and the Thief and its cast and crew have been recognized by critics and the industry alike.


73rd Directors Guild of America Awards 2021

Benjamin Ree
Nomination

Documentaries

Benjamin Ree

Watch Trailers, Clips & Behind-the-Scenes for The Painter and the Thief

See more

Watch official trailers, exclusive clips, cast interviews, and behind-the-scenes footage from The Painter and the Thief. Dive deeper into the making of the film, its standout moments, and key production insights.


Official Trailer

#BIFF2020 Wide Angle - The Painter and the Thief / 와이드 앵글 - 화가와 도둑

THE PAINTER AND THE THIEF Q&A | BFI London Film Festival 2020

Cars Featured in The Painter and the Thief

See 5 more

Explore all cars featured in The Painter and the Thief, including their makes, models, scenes they appear in, and their significance to the plot. A must-read for car enthusiasts and movie buffs alike.


Chevrolet

2019

Silverado

Chevrolet

2018

Silverado HD

Ram

2013

1500

Ram

2014

ProMaster

Toyota

2010

Tacoma

Movie Themes and Keywords

Discover the central themes, ideas, and keywords that define the movie’s story, tone, and message. Analyze the film’s deeper meanings, genre influences, and recurring concepts.


art documentarycarpainterpainter as protagonistczech painterpaintingczech abroadczech in norwayczech in oslothiefoslo norwayf ratedfemale protagonistartist

Similar Movies You Should Know About

Browse a curated list of movies similar in genre, tone, characters, or story structure. Discover new titles like the one you're watching, perfect for fans of related plots, vibes, or cinematic styles.


© 2025 What's After the Movie. All rights reserved.