One Year in a Life of Crime (1989)
Parent Guide
A gritty documentary showing real criminal activity and addiction. Not suitable for children due to mature content and ethical complexity.
Content breakdown
Contains footage of actual thefts being committed, though not violent in nature. Shows criminal activity that could be disturbing.
Real footage of crimes and portrayal of addiction/destructive lifestyles may be disturbing. The documentary's gritty realism creates an unsettling atmosphere.
Likely contains strong language typical of the criminal environment depicted, though specific content isn't rated.
No sexual content or nudity indicated in available information.
Explicitly deals with addiction as a central theme. Likely shows substance use and its consequences.
High emotional intensity due to real-life depiction of destructive lifestyles, addiction, and criminal activity. Creates a heavy, serious atmosphere.
Parent tips
This documentary contains real footage of crimes being committed and deals with mature themes like addiction and criminal lifestyles. It's best suited for older teens and adults who can process its realistic content.
Parent chat guide
Parent follow-up questions
—
—
- What do you think makes someone choose to steal?
- Why do you think the filmmakers used hidden cameras?
- How does the documentary show the relationship between addiction and crime?
- What ethical questions does the hidden-camera footage raise?
- How does this portrayal of crime differ from fictional crime shows?
Story overview
This 1989 documentary follows three professional criminals over a year, using hidden-camera footage to show actual thefts and explore their lives of crime and addiction. It's a gritty, realistic portrayal of petty crime's impact on individuals and society.
Where to watch
Choose region:
- HBO Max