Thieves Like Us 1974

In the throes of the 1930s, three men from desperate backgrounds, Bowie (Keith Carradine), T-Dub (Bert Remsen), and Chicamaw (John Schuck), make a daring escape from prison, compelled by poverty that has gripped the nation. Their audacious plan is to rob banks, seeking both financial freedom and a sense of exhilaration while staying one step ahead of the law. Seeking refuge, they find solace with Dee Mobley (Tom Skerritt) and his partner Keechie (Shelley Duvall), as well as T-Dub’s authoritative in-law, Mattie (Louise Fletcher). Together, they plan their future heists, glued to the unfolding drama of their crimes through the radio and newspapers, a modern-day chronicle that both thrills them and adds to their peril.

However, their once unshakeable camaraderie begins to fracture, fed by the sensational press coverage depicting their exploits. This excitement breeds a competitive jealousy within Chicamaw, which culminates in a violent act when he shoots a bank teller—an event that dramatically alters their fate and elevates their status to “wanted dead or alive.” The gravity of their situation forces a separation, with a plan to reconvene for future escapades.

Tragedy strikes when Bowie suffers an injury from a car crash, leaving him vulnerable and needing care. The gang brings him to Dee’s home, where Keechie tends to his wounds. In the midst of chaos, a deep romance blossoms between Bowie and Keechie, who dream of a peaceful life together in Mexico, away from the chaos of their current existence. The stakes heighten when T-Dub meets his demise at the hands of the police and Chicamaw is ushered into prison. In a moment of desperation, Bowie performs a daring act to free Chicamaw but ultimately abandons his former ally, grappling with a harsh moral dilemma.

As the noose tightens around their plans for a serene life, hope begins to slip away for Bowie and Keechie. Their aspirations are overshadowed by the relentless pursuit of the law, rendering their dreams of escape and tranquility increasingly elusive. The journey of crime, love, and conscience unfolds, illustrating the profound struggles woven into the fabric of their lives.