Bartender Fleeing After Caught Red-handed Theft
In the realm of cinematic storytelling, Darren Aronofsky's latest offering, Caught Stealing (or Caught in the Act), brings a unique blend of thrill, humour, and visual panache. Set in 1998, this movie, adapted from Charlie Huston's novel, is a captivating journey that sees our protagonist, Hank, played by Austin Butler, navigating a web of danger from the Russian mafia, Hassidic Jewish gangsters, and various shady characters.
The film is a collaboration between Aronofsky and his trusted collaborator, Matthew Libatique. Their partnership is evident in the movie's display of virtuosic and "Aronofskyian" techniques, which add a distinctive flavour to the story.
One of the film's most intriguing elements is a recurring memory that haunts Hank. This memory evolves each time it appears, creating a sense of mystery and intrigue. Aronofsky's technique with this recurring memory is a staple of his work, seen in films like Pi and The Whale.
The first part of the movie leans more towards comedy, providing a light-hearted introduction to the narrative. However, the second part favours drama, and the movie's tone shifts unexpectedly, making it difficult for the story to regain control. This abrupt change contributes to the film's unpredictable nature.
Griffin Dunne's appearance in the movie is a clear nod to Aronofsky's earlier work, After Hours (Nightshift). Zoe Kravitz plays Yvonne, a patient character who adds depth to the storyline.
While Caught Stealing doesn't induce the same vertigo as Aronofsky's best films, it's still quite impressive. The film's visual style, significantly enhanced by Aronofsky's direction, adds to its cinematic quality and entertainment value. With its panache, energy, and engaging plot, Caught Stealing is a thrilling addition to Aronofsky's filmography.
