Turturro trains as pickpocket for new crime drama

John Turturro is currently preparing for a role that requires him to steal from strangers. The 69-year-old actor stars as Harry in the upcoming film 'The Only Living Pickpocket in New York.' Harry is a skilled pickpocket who serves as the primary caretaker for his catatonic wife. The plot shifts when Harry steals a backpack belonging to a college student. That student is the grandson of a crime boss.

Turturro says the physical challenge of the role required specific technical training. He worked with Apollo Robbins, a renowned sleight-of-hand artist. Robbins coached Turturro on the mechanics of misdirection. Turturro practiced in the production office and on set. He notes that horizontal pockets on tight jeans are difficult to access. Back pockets are easier targets. A purse or backpack with an open zipper is the easiest option.

This is not Turturro's first performance of a flawed character. His filmography includes 'Do the Right Thing,' 'The Big Lebowski,' and 'O Brother, Where Art Thou?' He also appeared in television series such as 'Severance' and 'The Plot Against America.' He describes himself as a student who enjoys the uncertainty of new material. He says he likes to mine complex roles for every possible detail.

The actor recently spoke about the personal history that shapes his work. He served as the legal guardian for his late brother, who suffered from schizophrenia. Turturro arranged housing and hired aides for his brother. He describes the process as demanding and unpredictable. His brother was sometimes abusive and often hospitalized. Turturro says the experience taught him about human behavior and his own limits. He also noted that his father had post-traumatic stress disorder from serving in the Pacific during World War II.

Turturro grew up in Hollis, Queens. He lived in a garden apartment for his first six years. He says he had no white friends during that time. He moved to Rosedale later. That neighborhood was primarily Italian, Irish, and Jewish. He says he felt prejudiced there because people assumed he was Puerto Rican. He credits his mother for teaching him how to manage difficult social situations. She was a dressmaker, and Turturro helped with patterns and hems. He says these experiences gave him a distinct perspective on family dynamics and community.

The film 'The Only Living Pickpocket in New York' is currently in post-production. Turturro says he feels a strong connection to the character of Harry. He views the role as an opportunity to use a lifetime of accumulated experience. He says older actors have a fuller toolbox. They may move slower, but they can bring precision and stillness to a performance. He sees his own life history reflected in the character's weariness and skill.