This quirky crime story is driven by a mysterious main character and a daring crime, making for an entertaining, though somewhat inconsistent, experience with a charmingly old-fashioned feel.
Kelly Reichardt’s The Mastermind is a crime drama about a bold 1970s heist. The plan, led by a down-on-his-luck architect, involves a daytime robbery, taking advantage of simpler security measures from that era. However, the operation doesn’t go smoothly.
When four artworks are stolen, James Blaine Mooney attempts to keep them, inadvertently leading detectives closer to the person behind the heist – known only as “The Mastermind.” The film, with a quirky and humorous tone reminiscent of the 1970s, follows Mooney, a man who dreams of a normal family life, as he goes into hiding while authorities slowly pursue justice.
When a hesitant criminal finds himself investigated by authorities and others, he starts calling in debts and attempts to hinder the police. The Mastermind is a different kind of crime drama, opting for a realistic and understated approach instead of the flashy style seen in movies like Ocean’s Eleven.
Josh O’Connor, playing the central figure, is captivating because he keeps his true intentions mysterious, hinting only at a love for art. He skillfully shifts our feelings – one moment we’re rooting for him, the next we want to see him face consequences. He dominates the screen, and strong performances from Alana Haim and Hope Davis add to the overall impact.
The film isn’t just about admiring art; it suggests the protagonist might have committed the crime to give his ordinary life more purpose – a bit like a midlife crisis. Although this isn’t directly stated, it adds depth and makes the story more interesting than a straightforward chase.
“So, now’s the part where we disappear, right?”
The film The Mastermind draws you in with its genuine atmosphere and sincere acting. However, it’s hard to truly connect with the main character, Mooney, who seems uncertain and constantly shifts his focus, avoiding commitment.
We find a strange enjoyment in watching him stumble and face difficulties. His seemingly careless path towards trouble is reflected in the film’s style—it’s a relaxed and meandering story, making it a mildly amusing watch with a few unexpected turns.
The movie’s pace slows down at times as it works towards its conclusion, and some scenes feel unnecessary. However, the ending is surprisingly ironic and original, which ultimately makes it a strong finish. It provides a truly satisfying and fitting resolution – a perfect instance of karma at work.
The movie’s story feels like a battle for The Mastermind’s very being, which creates suspense as we try to figure out the overall message. It makes us think about who truly owns things, how much value we place on possessions, and what fairness really means.
The film The Mastermind follows a man trying to balance a complicated life, unaware of the serious repercussions his choices will bring. As he gets increasingly entangled in trouble and tries to fix things, his situation spirals downward. Thankfully, strong performances – especially from Josh O’Connor, who is the film’s anchor – make it a generally entertaining watch, offering a classic feel with a relaxed tone.
The bottom line: Grounded
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2025-12-04 11:43