Review by Justin Waldman for Mr. Will Wong
Last year’s TIFF the Closing Night Gala was the Jennifer Aniston-starring vehicle, Life of Crime. Almost a year to the day, the Film sees a unique simultaneous Theatrical and Home Video release. Unfortunately, the Movie isn’t quite as exhilarating as its Title suggests, however it still does have its moments saving it from a total Misfire. The saving graces are Aniston’s performance, and the strength of its brilliant Cast including the likes of Tim Robbins, John Hawkes and Mos Def.
Life Of Crime is primarily about Mickey Dawson, (Jennifer Aniston) being kidnapped by Ordell Robbie (Mos Def) and Louis Gara (John Hawkes). Since neither Ordell nor Louis have a clue about what to do after they kidnap someone they decide to bring her to their Nazi-enthusiast friend Richard Monk (Mark Boone Junior) and hold her up there. Their plan is to hold Mickey captive until they can receive the ransom from her Husband. Unfortunately for Ordell, Louis and Mickey, her Husband Frank (Tim Robbins) is cheating on her with a Flame, Melanie (Isla Fisher). The question remaining is what will happen to Mickey considering the Plan seems to have fallen apart. Life of Crime, takes the Audience on a Joyride where committing a crime would feel more exhilarating.
Considering Aniston has had her share of on-screen Misfortunes, her performance here is a breath of fresh air. She delivers a performance that we have not seen from her in a while, and it makes this slow-paced Affair move a fraction quicker. As well, the performances from Mos Def, Robbins and Hawkes keep us awake and entertained.
Throughout the entirety of Life of Crime, you might be unsure where exactly you’re heading but you certainly leave satisfied. An abundance of Plot Twists detract from the focus of the Story, but overall it is the performances from this likable Cast which help the Film avoid an arrest.
VVS Films release LIFE OF CRIME on Video-on-Demand and select theatres Friday, August 29, 2014.
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