John Turturro, the seasoned actor known for his work with directors such as the Coen brothers and Spike Lee, takes on a leading role in the new film “The Only Living Pickpocket in New York,” written and directed by Noah Segan. The film, which opens this week, centers on Harry, a career pickpocket navigating life in a city—and a world—that seem to be passing him by.

Set against the backdrop of a changing New York City, the story follows Harry as he balances the demands of caring for his wife by day with his criminal activities by night. His targets—wallets, phones, and jewelry—belong mostly to strangers who rely less on cash in the digital age, adding to Harry’s precarious existence. The film explores themes of aging, transformation, and connection in a city known for its grit and warmth.

To prepare for the role, Turturro worked closely with Apollo Robbins, a renowned sleight-of-hand artist who provided training and exercises in pickpocketing. The actor admitted to practicing the craft both on set and in real-life settings such as subway trains, where the temptation to test his skills was strong. While Turturro acknowledges he is far from a master, he embraced the discipline and nuance of the craft to bring authenticity to the character.

Harry’s criminal life is marked by a personal code that eschews violence and respects a certain camaraderie among thieves—a nod to the historical support systems pickpockets have formed. Turturro describes Harry as a man attempting to make amends for past failures, learning to care for others despite deeply ingrained habits and resistance to change, such as his avoidance of modern technology. In this way, the character’s journey reflects larger questions about growth, loss, and the complexities of human connection.

Filmed primarily on location in New York’s outer boroughs and on active subway trains, the production required access to neighborhoods less commonly portrayed on screen. Turturro found the experience invigorating, noting the warmth and generosity of local residents. His dressing rooms were improvised in diverse settings, from hair salons to pawn shops, underscoring the film’s grassroots approach.

For Turturro, who was born and raised in New York, the project carries additional personal weight. He reflects on his own trajectory, balancing a long and varied career with evolving perspectives on acting, aging, and craft. Describing his development, he spoke about learning to refine his work rather than rely on youthful energy, emphasizing the importance of authenticity and emotional truth in his performances.

Outside this project, Turturro continues to engage in high-profile work, including Emmy-nominated performances on the Apple TV series “Severance” and an upcoming role in Tom McCarthy’s film “A Statement.” He is also set to appear on Broadway in a production of Eugene Ionesco’s “Rhinoceros,” demonstrating his sustained commitment to diverse artistic endeavors.

“The Only Living Pickpocket in New York” thus marks a distinctive moment in Turturro’s career, giving him the lead role in a film that is as much an exploration of craft and character as it is a meditation on a vanishing New York and the human need for care and connection in uncertain times.