From the back cover:
James Caan, in his "most dynamic performance since [The Godfather's} Sonny Corleone" (Rolling Stone), stars in this suspenseful, action-packed thriller from acclaimed director Michael Mann (Heat). With a brilliant case, masterful direction and realistic detail, this explosive urban saga is "a high-tech crime movie that closes in on its subject with relentless purpose, and blows you away" (David Ansen, Newsweek)
Frank (Caan) is one of the best safe-crackers in the business, but he harbors a secret dream to escape his dangerous double life. Striking a deal with the mob, Frank agrees to perform one last heist - a daring four-million dollar theft - in exchange for his freedom and the chance to build a new life with his girlfriend (Tuesday Weld). But the harder he tries to escape the life he hates, the more he's pulled back into the dark, deadly world where murder is routine and no one can be trusted. With the web of betrayal closing around him, the master thief must rely on his finely-honed expertise to survive the harrowing adventure that erupts in to an unforgettable climax. Thief "envelops you in its tough, doom-laden grip and never lets you go" (Newsweek)!