‘The Thief Collector’ Review – Tonal Issues Sink An Otherwise Enjoyable Art Heist Documentary

Directed By: Allison Otto

Starring: Glenn Howerton, Sarah Minnich

Plot Summary: In 1985, Willem de Kooning’s “Woman-Ochre,” one of the most valuable paintings of the 20th century, vanished into the Arizona desert after being cut from its frame at the University of Arizona Museum of Art. Thirty-two years later, the $160 million painting was found hanging in the home of Jerry and Rita Alter in rural New Mexico. THE THIEF COLLECTOR takes a deep look at how—and why—this mild-mannered couple pulled off one of the greatest art heists of a generation, exploring the complicated dynamics of family, the contours of criminality and just how far people will go to weave their own grandiose narratives.

While stealing valuable art isn’t advisable, it’s not quite as bleak as outright murder. Therefore, for true crime buffs that are wanting something a little less stabby, it can be a nice change of pace. Director Allison Otto (The Love Bugs) tells the unbelievable true story of a basic couple, Jerry and Rita, living a seemingly normal life, apart from the occasional lavish trips that they take. After the couple pass away, items from their modest estate are donated to the local thrift store. It just so happens that among the knickknacks was a priceless masterpiece and the answer to a thirty-year-old mystery. Greater still, friends and family of Jerry and Rita are left wondering exactly who this couple were.

There are twists-and-turns abound in this off-beat documentary. The Thief Collector really excels in the way it is told using reenactments mixed with new interviews and rare archival material. From a technical standpoint, Otto does a really nice job at laying out the key information, as well as highlighting all angles of this incredible-but-true story. Like any good documentary, you really feel like you went on a journey. Sadly though, there are a few fundamental issues that hold this back. Objectively, what Jerry and Rita did was wrong, there is no doubt. Yet, wisely the overall tone for most of the film is lighthearted. Then the movie seemingly goes off the deep end, accusing Jerry of murder, which not only wrecks this established tone, but feels icky.

It feels so gross because both Jerry and Rita are deceased and therefore, they are unable to defend themselves. Indeed, a lot of judgement is harshly thrown their way. They steal, yes, but does that mean they murdered people? Highly unlikely. Sure, there are some legit awful things the couple did, but how much of this is actually verified is dubious at best. Seemingly this once breezy film suddenly feels like Otto has an agenda. While we do get some balance by way of hearing about the positive things they did, it still just feels overall pretty cringe. Some sassy and unnecessary jabs at the couple further feel a bit distasteful. But again, the couple are dead, so you apparently can just accuse them of anything and everything.

It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia star Glenn Howerton totally understands the assignment and adds a nice touch of quirkiness to an already strange tale. Howerton wearing a hilarious fake mustache while furiously cutting out a painting is over-the-top and works for this film. Sarah Minnich isn’t given much to do but is also very good as well. It is charming how effortlessly these reenactments are sprinkled throughout, and it adds a nice layer to the entire affair.

The Thief Collector tells a really remarkable story with depth and intelligence. Though, tonally things are messy, and the murder-subplot feels strangely placed and tacky-as-hell. It spoils what is otherwise an engaging film.

The Thief Collector is currently available On Demand. 

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1tT9oFa1k7A]