2.75/5
Reviewed May 8, 2024
Heist film where a grizzled cop (Statham), suspended after a botched hostage rescue where he and his partner were disgraced, is called back into service to help negotiate down a group of bank robbers. He’s teamed with a rookie cop (Ryan Phillippe, who was big for a few years then vanished) and, after the crooks (led by Wesley Snipes) escape and it’s found no money was taken, our mismatched duo has to figure out what exactly is going on. It’s one of those movies that has a solid premise but thinks it’s smarter than it is (the title plays into the story more than most generic films like this). I figured out most of the twists super early…because I’ve seen a number of films with this formula or obvious pieces of it, done better.
It’s still a fun ride with some moderate action. It’s directed well, the action flows, the actors clearly want to be there, but it’s disappointing and ultimately kind of bland, as these things go. Phillippe is a big part of that, because dude just sinks into the background, even during scenes where he’s the focus. Music doesn’t do it any favors either, and there’s a few tag-a-long cops we see a ton but have no reason to give a crap about.
If you want a heist thriller popcorn flick, you could do far worse than this.
Getting Reel with Mr. Sunshine 