Saw it last night….This isn't really a good movie, but it was an enjoyable one. Just going in, the concept it a rehash of a retread of a concept thats been done in film nearly since it's inception, more experienced con man/hitman/bank robber/detective takes on a amateur partner, and ends up romantically conflicted/involved/platonic but mutual respect…The opening scenes are well done enough, Will had a few lines in the beginning scene that weren't entirely stale or flat, but that set up has been done so many times, and this one didn't add anything new or interesting, the audience is as unimpressed as Smith's character.
The following scenes leading up to the Super Bowl are engaging and slick enough nonsense, that a team of 60 or so criminals would work in tandem, without getting caught or compromised, with large safe houses and group dinners…it's absurd. But, it's smooth and nicely directed, I wouldn't say theres a LACK of chemistry between Robbie and Smith, but there was a definite predictable feel to the entire ordeal (as well as the movie) but their relationship in particular was just not engaging enough. The scenes with BD Wong playing way against type were also fun, if preposterous….but the concluding scenes were heavy handed and too on the nose, maybe it's good acting, but I saw Smith's slight change in expression, and was like 'oh this is where he tells here she's all been a part of the con, even though he really has feelings, he's going to cut her off….for no discernible reason'. That happens, in a overly melodramatic fashion, and we move on to the films second phase. The pacing also felt off, less like a movie, then 2 big set pieces…but matters very little.
The second phase was less enjoyable, but still keeps the same slick tone of the first, with wealthier and more menacing inhabiters of the world of the hideously wealthy men, who swagger with machismo and lust for power and race skanks. I may be grasping for a point, but I am tired of these types playing in movies with no real compelling qualities, or insights into their characters. They are like junior james bond villains, caricatures. And, I have grown tired of the never-ending parties and glamour, with no substance behind it, in these types of films. The Buenos Aires locale is well shot and captured though. I liked the Australian, who has at least a few quick lines that were subtly hilarious, in their delivery….The other mark felt like an undercooked Oliver Martinez. Yes, the characters make poor decisions, and coincidence rears it's head far too much too take anything very seriously….It reminded me a lot of 'Maverick' 1994 in the last 20 minutes or so….As I said earlier the relationship between Smith and Jess is underdeveloped, and I am sure both actors could have pulled it off, but the script leads them astray in that area. I can't claim to have figured out every twist or reveal, but I did pretty well, it could be a critique of me or the movie, that I was less interested in figuring them out, then just getting it over with. I knew the bodyguard security character was wrong somehow….esp. after that odd hotel scene, which serves no real purpose, except as a clue, and to show off Smith's physique. All in all, everyone looks good, sounds better, and dresses perfectly, and it all ends nicely….and I enjoyed the expereince, though it is a B- movie.
Spolier: I have also had it with the 'joke' or twist where one character makes off with 25 million dollars (a ridiculous sum) in a jovial manner, it's a callous move and doesn't fit with the rest of the movie, and Smith's reaction, or lack thereof is frustrating. That's 25 million dollars. fukk. At least threaten his life. The motivations and context make no sense.
Edit: Also, I know since they introduced that con in the beginning (shooting your partner) they would use it….but the way things unfolded, weren't there at least 2 different ways to handle that, without shooting your surrogate son? And, I don't think anyone would walk way from those duffle bags, no matter what happened. If you have to leave, at least grab a bag.