Once a Thief is a 1965 film directed by Ralph Nelson. It was written by Zekial Marko, based on his novel Scratch A Thief. Nelson won the OCIC award at the 1965 San Sebastián International Film Festival for the film.
Ex-criminal Eddie Pedak (Delon), tries to lead a normal life with a steady job and a family. Much to his chagrin, he also has a police detective (Heflin) and brother (Palance) after him, the first believes Eddie shot him, the second wants him for one last heist.
A.H. Weiler of The New York Times thought that the film was not as good as similar genre pictures, but praised its dialogue for its accuracy in portraying the gangster's speak.
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