In his latest film, "The Instigators," available on Apple TV, director Doug Liman brings together an unlikely pairing of esteemed actors - Oscar winners Matt Damon and Casey Affleck. Through a collaboration with Chuck MacLean, the film delves into the aftermath of a heist gone awry. The narrative unfolds to follow the characters Rory (portrayed by Matt Damon) and Cobby (portrayed by Casey Affleck) as they are thrust into a high-stakes predicament. These two individuals, a desperate father, and an ex-convict, find themselves compelled to unite for a mission targeting the nefarious Mayor Miccelli, played superbly by Ron Perlman, who is embroiled in a tense re-election campaign against his rival, Mark Choi, portrayed by Ronnie Cho.
As the heist takes an unexpected turn, Rory and Cobby become entangled in a maelstrom of chaos, becoming the subject of pursuit not only by law enforcement but also by entrenched bureaucrats and vindictive crime figures, prominently including Mr. Besegia, portrayed by Michael Stuhlbarg, and Richie Dechico, played by Alfred Molina. The protagonists, inadequately prepared for such a dire situation, enlist the help of Rory's therapist, portrayed by the talented Hong Chau, in a frantic attempt to evade capture. Together, they navigate a tumultuous escape through the city, needing to transcend their differences and collaborate to outmaneuver capture, including avoiding the clutches of the formidable and corrupt officer, Frankie, portrayed by Ving Rhames.
While I'm not a vast Casey Affleck fan, and I'll die on the hill thinking he didn't deserve the 2017 Oscar for "Manchester of the Sea", I am a fan of Mr. Damon. Furthermore, following his success with the Road House remake and a reunion with his "The Bourne Identity" star, I had high hopes for Doug Liman's latest directorial effort. The film may earn a slot in my year's worst.
From the onset, Affleck and their co-writer apparently aimed to recreate Damon and Affleck's chemistry in the Oceans films. The problem is that the script relies on too many cliches that no one has anyone. Since the film is set in Beantown, you would think that Affleck would tap into the city's humor, but that never occurs. Doug Liman is clearly on autopilot in terms of directing, as the tone he attempts comes off as a student film.
In addition, Toby Jones, Paul Walter Hauser, and Jack Harlow were wasted when their characters could have done more. While I'm sure there is an audience for "The Instigators," the film is a miss for me.
Final Grade: D+
"The Instigators," is available to stream tomorrow
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