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Feb 7 2012

Pickpockets: Artists or Crooks?

33 min 5 movies discussed
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There aren't many criminal pursuits that are as storied as pickpocketing, and some people fondly reminisce over its heyday. Learn why some consider pickpocketing an art form, how to protect yourself from this art and more in this episode.

AI Summary

Josh and Chuck dive into the fascinating world of pickpocketing, exploring both the artistry and techniques behind this age-old crime. They cover everything from the specialized lingo and team dynamics of professional pickpockets to the various scams and distractions used to separate people from their valuables. The hosts also discuss why pickpocketing has largely disappeared as a crime in the United States while remaining prevalent in other parts of the world, plus share practical tips for protecting yourself while traveling.


Movies Discussed

Basket Case
Basket Case
1982 1h 31m
★ 6.2
"Have you ever seen basket case? Where the guy carries his mutant brother around in the basket — Josh references this horror movie when discussing how Times Square used to look dangerous and seedy." — Josh
Harry in Your Pocket
Harry in Your Pocket
1973 1h 43m
★ 5.7
"Harry in your pocket, I think. Yeah. It's what it's called. I haven't seen it, but it's a James Coburn movie from 73 — Chuck mentions this James Coburn movie as another film reference related to pickpocketing." — Chuck
Hey Dude
Hey Dude
1989
★ 6.8
"stars of the cult classic show, Hey Dude, bring you back to the days of slip dresses — This is mentioned in a podcast advertisement that plays during the episode."
Oliver Twist
Oliver Twist
1948 2h 1m
★ 7.6
"Oliver Twist made pickpocketing very famous in London — Chuck mentions how Oliver Twist made pickpocketing famous in London when discussing the origin of pickpocketing terminology." — Chuck
Poltergeist
Poltergeist
1982 1h 54m
★ 7.2
"Do you remember AOL instant messenger and the dial-up sound like poltergeist? — Referenced in a podcast advertisement comparing dial-up internet sounds to the movie."

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