Life & Crimes of Doris Payne

At first glance, Doris Payne seems like a pretty normal old lady. The 81-year-old is sweet and charming and could easily remind you of your grandmother. But, as THE LIFE AND CRIMES OF DORIS PAYNE proves, she's anything but ordinary. And, unless your grandma is a notorious international jewel thief, it's safe to say they're unalike. For over 60 years, Payne has stolen more than two million dollars in jewelry from places including Tiffany's and Cartier. She did so not by force, but by demonstrating some incredible slight of hand trickery. Growing up impoverished during the time of segregation, Payne's motivations for stealing are complex. Her first score was out of necessity – she used the money to rescue her mother from her abusive father. While her initial intentions could be justified, the rest of her crime career is certainly debatable. Now facing prison time for a recent theft, Payne remains unapologetic about her past. This riveting documentary offers fascinating insight into the unbelievable life of one of America's most unlikely crooks. —E.F.