John Turturro could pick your pocket (if he wanted to)
Nov 2, 2026 · 45m
Summary
John Turturro discusses his new film, The Only Living Pickpocket in New York, and shares personal stories about caring for his brother with schizophrenia and his father’s PTSD. He reflects on how these experiences of family trauma and caregiving have shaped his acting career and his ability to portray morally complex characters.
Topics discussed
Introduction and background on John Turturro
Plot of The Only Living Pickpocket in New York
The mechanics and history of pickpocketing
Researching the character and the wife's condition
The film's structure and the character's growth
Caring for his brother with schizophrenia
The fire at his mother's home
Navigating family violence and his role as protector
Breakthrough role in Five Corners
Family dynamics and acting material
Sponsor breaks and show promotion
Scene from The Big Lebowski and Coen Brothers direction
Researching the character's voice and cadence
Working with his father in construction
Influence of his mother and early interests
Sponsor breaks and show promotion
Growing up in multicultural New York
Preparing for the role in The Night Of
Sponsor break and show promotion
Grandmother's story and family resilience
Aging as an actor and costume details
Closing remarks and credits
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