Darren Aronofsky, well-known for his dark, psychologically intense films such as Black Swan and The Whale, left the fans surprised with Caught Stealing. In a striking contrast to his usual style, the film is a stylish, bloody, and wildly entertaining crime thriller. The film is an adaptation of Charlie Huston’s 2004 novel of the same name, and Darren has swapped his usual heavy introspection for a more commercial, high-energy ride, staying true to the original script. However, his signature intensity still lurks beneath the surface.
Austin Butler leaves the audience in a trance with the gritty tale, with a stylish edge
The film is a true retro film at its core, set in the Lower East Side of 1998, the film captured the urban decay with extreme authenticity and flair. From subway tile credits to graffiti-covered doors and streets piled with trash, Danner has truly channelled the 1990s New York. Austin Butler plays the role of ‘Hank’ in the film, a former high school baseball star turned into an aimless bartender, whose life spirals into chaos after his eccentric neighbour ‘Russ’ (Matt Smith) leaves him in charge of a cat.
But how did a cat turn into trouble for ‘Hank’? Well, it was not the cat but the hidden stash of drug money which turned his world upside down. Soon, Russian thugs are banging at his door. And ‘Hank’ finds himself at the centre of a violent manhunt. Matthew Libatique’s vibrant cinematography adds life to the city while maintaining New York’s grit and kinetic energy.
Caught Stealing has a strong lead and cast
A film’s cast can make or break the project, and Caught Stealing has an impeccable lineup, with Austin Butler in the lead as the perfect reluctant hero. His wide, innocent eyes turn into scrappy survivalism as he navigates the danger. Austin tremedously lends emotional weight to the role, especially with the flashbacks of the car crash that derailed his baseball dreams.
Danner has perfectly captured every emotion, adding depth to the film’s emotional core. Zoe Kravits essays the role of ‘Hank’s’ paramedic girlfriend, ‘Yvonne’. While her role is small and fades too early, it’s crucial to the plot. Regina King plays the street-smart detective, while Griffin Dunne can be seen as ‘Hank’s’ boss. Bad Bunny also surprises the fans with his impeccable portrayal of the stylish Russian crime boss.
Caught Stealing is a burst of violent energy, but in a good way
Caught Stealing includes plenty of bloody action. The film is filled with bloody shootouts, dead bystanders, and bone-crunching brawls. However, instead of drowning into a loud, chaotic sound fest, it keeps the film’s infectious energy moving. Danner Aronofsky doesn’t shy from darkness, but he infuses it with fun, making this his most accessible film to date. In the end, Caught Stealing is part action-thriller and part dark comedy held together by Austin Butler’s charm and Danner’s sleek direction. Although unusual, the film is definitely worth watching.
What are your thoughts on Caught Stealing? Let us know.
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