The World’s Most Expensive Stolen Paintings
“What is the art theft we can’t resist?” That’s just one question posed by presenter and art critic Alastair Suker in this BBC documentary about some of the most famous high-stakes art heists. Sooke is eager to learn more about those who steal art, their motivations, and why so few works are returned to their rightful owners.
Although several cases are discussed, the focus is on the robbery of the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum in Boston 25 years ago. The theft, which has been dubbed the largest art crime in history, was carried out by two men posing as police officers. In total, they stole 13 items, ranging from priceless masterpieces to questionable jewelry. To date, no arrests have been made and no stolen works have been recovered. The crime is widely suspected to have been committed by a smooth-talking foodie in the Thomas Crown affair.
The idea that eccentric millionaire collectors are behind these crimes is quickly debunked when Sooke interviews a leading art crime investigator. Contrary to the glorified image of the savvy thief, the underground business of art theft is dominated by professional criminals. Since the fragments themselves are often worth more than any monetary value (thus negating any possible ransom or resale value), they are used in the world of organized crime as currency to buy drugs and weapons.
Suker also interviews famed art thief Miles Conner, who claims to know the man who robbed the Gardner Museum. He boasted that he had helped plan the heist, and attributed much of his success to the folly of the museum guard who was on duty that fateful night. His account of events as they really happened also contradicts preconceptions about art theft.
In addition to Suker’s narration and standard interviews, the film uses a soundtrack and stylized reenactments to get the most out of the film’s mischievous spirit while positing that the world of art theft is far removed from Hollywood mythology.
