This is one of several short films produced by Efftee studios (owned by "FT" Thring, founder of Hoyts) using theatrical stars of the day. The sketch, employing the idea of male/female role reversal, is performed on stage and is meant to suggest what may be "in the future". However, the roles they have depicted, having the philandering woman act tough and mean and the ever-sobbing homebound man pleading for more love and affection, have backfired on them. The role the man plays is certain to be offensive to women of today.

The film's story is told through the eyes of Sanya, a child who was born on the roadside to a homeless widow in 1946. When he is six, he and his mother are approached on a train by a man named Tolyan who is dressed as an army officer. "Uncle" Tolyan is a charming man, tall and robust in a land where many are ill and hungry. It takes money to be healthy and Tolyan survives by stealing. The mother, Katia, falls for Tolyan, but is also mindful of the fact that he is a strong and healthy mate who will be able to provide for her and her son. The three are soon living together as a family. Tolyan's army uniform and his ability to bluff provide protection against identity checks and police questions. But although Tolyan is charming on the outside, Sanya discovers that he has a violent and unpleasant side. The relationship between the three characters deepens and we learn more about the real nature of Tolyan and his criminal activities. Sanya indulges in the fantasy that his real father will one day return (even though he had died during the war). The Thief was nominated last year for an Oscar in the best foreign language film category.