The archetypical plot Heist film

usually heist film contain three-act plot. first act consists of preparations heist: gathering conspirators; learning layout of location robbed; learning alarm system; revealing innovative technologies used; and, importantly, setting plot twists in final act.

the second act heist itself. rare exception, heist successful, although number of unexpected events occur.

the third act unraveling of plot. characters involved in heist turned against 1 or 1 of characters have made arrangements outside party, interfere (often wise, underestimated detective). normally, of or characters involved in heist end dead, captured law, or without of loot; however, becoming increasingly common conspirators successful, particularly if target portrayed being of low moral standing, such casinos, corrupt organizations or individuals, or fellow criminals.

as established archetype, became common, starting in 1950s, excise 1 or 2 of acts in story, relying on viewers familiarity archetype fill in missing elements. touchez pas au grisbi , reservoir dogs, example, both take place largely after heist has occurred.

examples of heist films take place non-linearly: killing (1956); gambit (1966); , reservoir dogs (1992).