Masterminds is a comedic retelling of the 1997 Loomis Fargo robbery in which a small group of southerners made off with $17.3 million in cash.
Zach Galifianakis (David), Kristen Wiig (Kelly), Owen Wilson (Steve), Ross Kimball (Eric), Jason Sudeikis (Mike), Devin Ratray (Runny), Mary Ellis (Michelle), Kate McKinnon (Jandice), Leslie Jones (Scanlon).
Masterminds launches with some backstory, character introductions, and plot setup. As things begin to evolve we can't help but wonder if the real thieves were as inept and lucky as represented by the film. About then the humor kicks in and we no longer care. While there is some character development through the rest of the film, it is really a simple but fun journey as the crew of robbers begins enjoying their new wealth as the police close in. The film finishes nicely with some news shots and other photos of the actual gang.
Acting was good with Galifianakis delivering a much better performance than expected. Wilson was well cast and brought good energy to the film. Wiig was another good choice and seemed to work well with Galifianakis and Wilson. Sudeikis was funny and did nicely, as did the remainder of the cast.
Camera work, sets, and backgrounds were varied and nicely used. Costuming and makeup deserves a nod in this one, particularly around how Galifianakis appeared. Dialogue was campy and corny, and could have used a smidge more humor, but was enjoyable. Sound and soundtrack were fitting.
While Masterminds may not be a realistic telling of the 1997 Loomis Fargo robbery, the film is enjoyable in a light-hearted way. Those who enjoy crime comedy should enjoy this one.
With some mild sexual innuendo, a few bits of foul language and violence, this should be fine for teens and above.
Released: 2016
Reviewed: 6.21.17
Star rating: 3 out of 5
Genre: Action, Comedy, Crime, Crime Comedy, Films based on a true story
copyright ©2017 Dave Riedel
Zach Galifianakis (David), Kristen Wiig (Kelly), Owen Wilson (Steve), Ross Kimball (Eric), Jason Sudeikis (Mike), Devin Ratray (Runny), Mary Ellis (Michelle), Kate McKinnon (Jandice), Leslie Jones (Scanlon).
Masterminds launches with some backstory, character introductions, and plot setup. As things begin to evolve we can't help but wonder if the real thieves were as inept and lucky as represented by the film. About then the humor kicks in and we no longer care. While there is some character development through the rest of the film, it is really a simple but fun journey as the crew of robbers begins enjoying their new wealth as the police close in. The film finishes nicely with some news shots and other photos of the actual gang.
Acting was good with Galifianakis delivering a much better performance than expected. Wilson was well cast and brought good energy to the film. Wiig was another good choice and seemed to work well with Galifianakis and Wilson. Sudeikis was funny and did nicely, as did the remainder of the cast.
Camera work, sets, and backgrounds were varied and nicely used. Costuming and makeup deserves a nod in this one, particularly around how Galifianakis appeared. Dialogue was campy and corny, and could have used a smidge more humor, but was enjoyable. Sound and soundtrack were fitting.
While Masterminds may not be a realistic telling of the 1997 Loomis Fargo robbery, the film is enjoyable in a light-hearted way. Those who enjoy crime comedy should enjoy this one.
With some mild sexual innuendo, a few bits of foul language and violence, this should be fine for teens and above.
Released: 2016
Reviewed: 6.21.17
Star rating: 3 out of 5
Genre: Action, Comedy, Crime, Crime Comedy, Films based on a true story
copyright ©2017 Dave Riedel
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