“The Thomas Crown Affair” is a cinematic masterpiece that has captured the imaginations of audiences for decades. Known for its blend of high-stakes heists, complex characters, and stylish direction, this film has left an indelible mark on the genre of crime and romance. With two versions to its name — the original 1968 film and the 1999 remake — “The Thomas Crown Affair” is a testament to the allure of the perfect crime.
Plot Summary
1968 Original:
The original “The Thomas Crown Affair,” directed by Norman Jewison, stars Steve McQueen as Thomas Crown, a wealthy and bored Boston businessman who masterminds a meticulously planned bank heist for the thrill of it. Faye Dunaway plays Vicki Anderson, an insurance investigator determined to catch Crown but finds herself romantically entangled with him. The film is renowned for its split-screen visuals, jazzy score, and iconic chess scene that sizzles with understated tension.
1999 Remake:
In the 1999 remake directed by John McTiernan, Pierce Brosnan takes on the role of Thomas Crown, now a suave billionaire who steals a Monet painting from the Metropolitan Museum of Art simply because he can. Rene Russo portrays Catherine Banning, the insurance investigator hot on Crown’s trail. This version updates the narrative with high-tech heists and a steamy romance, modernizing the story while retaining the core elements of charm and intellectual gamesmanship.
Cast and Characters
Steve McQueen and Faye Dunaway (1968):
Steve McQueen’s portrayal of Thomas Crown is defined by a cool, calculated demeanour, embodying a man who has everything but still seeks excitement through crime. Faye Dunaway’s Vicki Anderson is his perfect match, a confident and determined investigator whose chemistry with Crown blurs the lines between hunter and prey.
Pierce Brosnan and Rene Russo (1999):
Pierce Brosnan brings a suave, debonair quality to Thomas Crown, elevating the character’s charisma. Rene Russo’s Catherine Banning is more aggressive and sophisticated, and their on-screen dynamic is electric, full of seductive banter and strategic manoeuvring.
Directorial Vision and Style
Norman Jewison’s 1968 Approach:
Jewison’s direction is marked by innovative storytelling techniques, such as the split-screen sequences that allow multiple perspectives to unfold simultaneously. His focus on style, from the fashion to the jazzy soundtrack, gives the film a distinctly 1960s flair that has aged gracefully.
John McTiernan’s 1999 Remake:
McTiernan’s approach modernizes the tale with sleek cinematography, a pulsating soundtrack, and more dynamic heist scenes. He adds layers of psychological depth and ramps up the sexual tension, making the film as much about the cat-and-mouse game between Crown and Banning as it is about the heist itself.
Critical Reception and Ratings
1968 Original:
- IMDB Score: 7.0/10
- Rotten Tomatoes Score: 71% (Critics), 70% (Audience)
The original received praise for its stylish direction, charismatic leads, and innovative visual techniques, though some critics found the plot to be secondary to its aesthetic appeal.
1999 Remake:
- IMDB Score: 6.8/10
- Rotten Tomatoes Score: 70% (Critics), 77% (Audience)
The remake was generally well-received for its updated take on the classic story, with particular accolades for the chemistry between Brosnan and Russo and the film’s polished production values.
Themes and Symbolism
Exploring Wealth, Romance, and Crime:
At its core, “The Thomas Crown Affair” delves into themes of wealth and its discontents. Thomas Crown is a man who has everything but is driven by a need for excitement that his wealth cannot buy. The film also explores the complexities of romance, where love and mistrust go hand in hand, creating a narrative that is both seductive and suspenseful.
The Chess Game as a Metaphor:
The famous chess scene in the 1968 version serves as a metaphor for the entire film, representing the strategic manoeuvring and psychological games between Crown and Anderson. It’s a dance of power, seduction, and intellect, encapsulating the essence of their relationship.
The Soundtracks
1968 Soundtrack:
The original film’s soundtrack, composed by Michel Legrand, features the Oscar-winning song “The Windmills of Your Mind.” The music complements the film’s mood, oscillating between suspenseful and whimsical, much like the character of Thomas Crown himself.
1999 Soundtrack:
The remake includes a more contemporary score by Bill Conti, along with Sting’s cover of “The Windmills of Your Mind.” The music enhances the film’s modern elegance and helps set the tone for the heist and the evolving romance between Crown and Banning.
Cultural Impact and Legacy
“The Thomas Crown Affair” has left a lasting impact on the heist genre. Its influence can be seen in subsequent films that blend crime with romance and psychological intrigue. The sophisticated approach to storytelling, combined with the allure of the perfect crime, makes it a timeless piece that continues to captivate new generations.
The film’s iconic scenes, such as the chess match and the museum heist, are often referenced in popular culture, underscoring its status as a classic. Both versions of the film highlight the charisma of their leads and the intriguing dance of attraction and deception, cementing their place in cinema history.
Conclusion
“The Thomas Crown Affair” remains a masterclass in style, sophistication, and storytelling. Whether it’s the 1968 original or the 1999 remake, the film offers audiences a captivating blend of romance, crime, and psychological warfare. Its exploration of the duality of human nature — the desire for excitement against the backdrop of wealth and power — keeps it relevant even today. The characters of Thomas Crown and Catherine Banning/Vicki Anderson are forever locked in a dance of wits and attraction, making “The Thomas Crown Affair” a film that truly stands the test of time.
FAQs
What is “The Thomas Crown Affair” about?
“The Thomas Crown Affair” is about a wealthy man, Thomas Crown, who orchestrates a high-stakes heist for the thrill of it and the ensuing cat-and-mouse game with an insurance investigator who aims to catch him but becomes romantically involved.
How many versions of “The Thomas Crown Affair” are there?
There are two main versions of “The Thomas Crown Affair”: the original released in 1968 and a remake in 1999. Both follow similar plots but with different styles and updates to fit their respective eras.
Who stars in “The Thomas Crown Affair”?
The 1968 film stars Steve McQueen and Faye Dunaway, while the 1999 remake features Pierce Brosnan and Rene Russo in the lead roles.
What are the IMDB and Rotten Tomatoes scores?
The 1968 version has an IMDB score of 7.0/10 and a Rotten Tomatoes score of 71% (critics) and 70% (audience). The 1999 remake has an IMDB score of 6.8/10 and a Rotten Tomatoes score of 70% (critics) and 77% (audience).
Why is “The Thomas Crown Affair” considered a classic?
“The Thomas Crown Affair” is considered a classic due to its stylish portrayal of crime and romance, charismatic performances, and the psychological intrigue between its main characters. Its unique storytelling, visual flair, and memorable music have made it an enduring favourite.