Top 10 Heist Films: Mythical Robberies

Description: Based on the real-life 1855 gold bullion theft from a train, this film adds a mythical twist with its period setting and the legendary status of the crime itself.

Fact: Michael Crichton, known for his science fiction, wrote and directed this historical heist film.

Description: While primarily a crime drama, the film includes a legendary bank heist sequence that has become part of cinematic lore, with its meticulous planning and execution.

Fact: The famous coffee shop scene between De Niro and Pacino was filmed in one continuous take, showcasing the actors' chemistry.

Description: A wealthy businessman orchestrates an art heist for the thrill of it, making it a modern myth of the bored elite. The film's charm lies in its sophisticated execution and the cat-and-mouse game with the insurance investigator.

Fact: The iconic chess scene was filmed in one take, with the actors playing a real game.

Description: Based on the real-life Baker Street robbery, this film adds a layer of myth with the rumored involvement of the British Royal Family and MI5. It's a heist with political intrigue and a touch of the unknown.

Fact: The film was inspired by a real event, but many details were changed or invented for dramatic effect.

Description: Danny Ocean and his crew plan to rob three Las Vegas casinos simultaneously. The mythical aspect lies in the sheer audacity and the legendary status of the original 1960 film, which this version reimagines.

Fact: The Bellagio, The Mirage, and The MGM Grand were all involved in the production, allowing for authentic casino scenes.

Description: This modern classic features a team of thieves pulling off an audacious gold heist in Venice, with a twist involving a Mini Cooper chase. The film's mythical element comes from the legendary status of the original 1969 film, which this remake pays homage to.

Fact: The film was shot in real locations in Venice, including the famous canal chase scene. The Mini Coopers used in the film were custom-made for the movie.

Description: A group of bank robbers in Boston plan their final heist, with elements of local folklore and the myth of the 'Charlestown bank robbers' woven into the narrative.

Fact: Ben Affleck, who directed and starred in the film, grew up in the area where the movie is set, adding authenticity to the portrayal.

Description: While not a traditional heist, this film involves stealing an idea from someone's mind, making it a heist in the realm of dreams. The mythical aspect is the concept of dream layers and the manipulation of reality.

Fact: The film's complex narrative required extensive planning, with Christopher Nolan using a 'dream journal' to keep track of the plot.

Description: A group of magicians pull off bank heists during their performances, blending magic with crime. The mythical element is the idea of using illusion to commit crimes, making the audience question what's real.

Fact: The film features real magic tricks, with the actors learning from professional magicians.

Description: Robert De Niro and Edward Norton star in this tale of a master thief tempted out of retirement for one last job, involving a mythical scepter hidden in a Montreal customs house.

Fact: This was Marlon Brando's last film before his death, adding a layer of cinematic history to the movie.