It is almost a perfect fit having Sodenbergh at the helm of this film, a fun caper of what some might call the perfect crime. Cleverly put together and masterfully acted by the likes of Craig and Tatum, two reliable performers who have been giving us a share of delights in the last decade. Somehow, overshadowed by others, there's no chance of that happening here, and both draw attention to their respective characters. Tatum's is low key and earns our sympathies early in the story. It's hard to believe that he is the driving force behind the plan. He walks around as if always hurting, an open heart who lives solely to make sure his kid is a happy child and does her best considering she spends her time between two separated parents.
The mood is set right from the start when one can see the beautiful connection these two share. Having her clarify whether he needs a flat head or a Phillips screwdriver is one of the most heartfelt moments of the year. There is also a strong bond between the two brothers, and it is also full of quiet interactions. It also becomes clear during their exchanges who is the smart one in the family, who is the leader, and who is the follower.
The plan requires the involvement of the Craig character, a expert in explosive devices who needs the right incentive and challenge to join in. He does his part, treating those along the way to a series of very interesting and salacious remarks. He has a twinkle in his eye and irradiates a charm that is hard to fight. He has his connections and peculiarities, and all of them are put to good use while executing the robbery.
There is plenty of humor when we see the various exchanges between the different characters. We have seen people like these before; but we haven't quite seen them do the things they come up here. Everything feels real and though some of their lucky moments might make us raise an eyebrow, we cheer for them. There are the require obnoxious stereotypes, but even those are likable. The tone remains constant, the pay off seems justified, and well, do we end up with a happy ending? That's to be decided both on and off screen.
We only hope that all these parts of the delightful whole are recognized at the end of the year because Tatum delivers and Craig tops himself in one performance that is so such a transformation, we know we are witnessing really good acting. There is a powerful force complimenting his shocking exterior. It's hard to believe this is the man who walks around in those expensive suits and wouldn't be happy with his gin fixed anyway but the one he prefers.
The mood is set right from the start when one can see the beautiful connection these two share. Having her clarify whether he needs a flat head or a Phillips screwdriver is one of the most heartfelt moments of the year. There is also a strong bond between the two brothers, and it is also full of quiet interactions. It also becomes clear during their exchanges who is the smart one in the family, who is the leader, and who is the follower.
The plan requires the involvement of the Craig character, a expert in explosive devices who needs the right incentive and challenge to join in. He does his part, treating those along the way to a series of very interesting and salacious remarks. He has a twinkle in his eye and irradiates a charm that is hard to fight. He has his connections and peculiarities, and all of them are put to good use while executing the robbery.
There is plenty of humor when we see the various exchanges between the different characters. We have seen people like these before; but we haven't quite seen them do the things they come up here. Everything feels real and though some of their lucky moments might make us raise an eyebrow, we cheer for them. There are the require obnoxious stereotypes, but even those are likable. The tone remains constant, the pay off seems justified, and well, do we end up with a happy ending? That's to be decided both on and off screen.
We only hope that all these parts of the delightful whole are recognized at the end of the year because Tatum delivers and Craig tops himself in one performance that is so such a transformation, we know we are witnessing really good acting. There is a powerful force complimenting his shocking exterior. It's hard to believe this is the man who walks around in those expensive suits and wouldn't be happy with his gin fixed anyway but the one he prefers.