Neon Dreams and Moral Grays: My Thoughts on "Thief"

Okay, film nerds, I finally got around to watching "Thief" (1981) and WOW. I knew Michael Mann was a stylist, but this was something else. The cinematography, especially the way they used neon and practical lights, was just... delicious. Like, you could practically feel the sticky humidity of Chicago clinging to the camera lens. I especially loved the way the heist scenes were lit, stark and almost surgical. It really emphasized the cold, professional detachment Frank was trying to maintain. I'm obsessed with the restaurant scene where Frank and Jessie 'interview' each other. The way the light flickers on their faces, the intensity building as they drop their guard -- beautiful storytelling, visually and in terms of dialog. James Caan absolutely owned that role too. He brought this quiet intensity mixed with barely-contained rage that made Frank so compelling. You understood WHY he wanted out, why he was so desperate for that 'normal' life, even if you knew he was probably kidding himself. It's kinda funny seeing a pre-stardom Dennis Farina, too! I think the whole thing struck a nerve because it explores that gray area of morality. Is Frank a bad guy? Sure, he's a thief! But he's also trying to build something, to legitimize himself, even if he's going about it in completely the wrong way. That tension between the desire for redemption and the pull of the underworld felt so raw and authentic. I think the ending felt a little rushed, if I'm honest. I almost wish they had explored the fallout of his decision a leeetle bit more -- or maybe that's just me being greedy because I wanted to keep watching? But honestly, the build-up to that climax was just perfect, and you FELT the weight of his choices crashing down. Overall, this one def gets my cinephile seal of approval. Anyway, I'm curious to hear what you all thought. Did the ending work for you? And who else is obsessed with the soundtrack? Tangerine Dream, man... pure synth goodness. Let's discuss!