#REVIEW: “THE INSTIGATORS”

Review by Justin Waldman for Mr. Will Wong

The big thing that The Instigators has going for it, is the fact that Director Doug Liman (Road House, Edge of Tomorrow) knows well how to direct Action. Mostly, that is where the excitement for the Movie ends, which is disappointing considering its pedigree and A-list talent. And trust me, we love a good Heist movie, great set pieces and action sequences.  We just expected more.

The Film focuses on two ‘numbskulls’ Rory and Cobby  (Matt Damon and Casey Affleck) respectfully, and are forced to work together to figure out a heist and they get their boss the money he needs to ensure they are in the clear. They’re joined on their mission by Scalvo (Hip-Hop star Jack Harlow) to rob Mayor Miccelli (Ron Perlman), but things go awry and they’re left with a miniscule share instead of the amount they’re expecting. With their backs against the wall and Richie Dechico and Mr. Besegai (Alfred Molina and Michael Stuhlbarg respectively) wanting the money they were expecting, Rory and Cobby need to find a way to get the cash and stay alive.

The Instigators feels in ways like an Ocean’s movie, but the problem is, we’ve already had four of those, and they admittedly were done better. This latest entry into the Heist genre falls a little flat, making it a little challenging for the audience to get behind the thrill of the case. While it does excel in its Action sequences, out two leads don’t feel fully invested – and we know very well they are capable.

That being said though, Supporting Actors Molina, Stuhlbarg and Chau more than pull their weight. THE INSTIGATORS opens in select theaters on Friday, August 2, 2024, before streaming globally on Apple TV+ on Friday, August 9, 2024.