Caught Stealing

Gus Keller
3 days ago
1 min read

With compelling pieces that don't always unify, Caught Stealing is almost great. While the plot can feel convoluted, its premise as well as turning points are concise. This keeps its protagonist motivated, accentuating his internal struggles. Though parallels between the external conflict and his drama are strenuous, they culminate in a valid arc. There are surprises, (excessively) eccentric characters, and setup/payoff. A theme about escape is considered. Still, its script has cliches (a McGuffin), clumsy humor, and slightly fleeting tragedy. Yet the acting softens these blemishes via layered personalities plus physicality. Thus, Caught Stealing is intentional entertainment.

Although its tones are clunky, Caught Stealing's technicals provide energy as well as style. The cinematography is proactive with movement, focus, framing, and angles. Similarly, smash cuts, stings, action, and distortions enliven the soundscape. Despite the emotions needing more time to breathe, its editing maintains assertive momentum. Era needle drops enhance the music's decent scoring. Grungy 90s NYC is distinctly established through its production design. The cast offers robust depth around a fitting star. Its effects are solid stunts, violence makeup, and a couple pyrotechnics. Overall, Caught Stealing may not be altogether optimized, but it remains a superior outing.

Writing: 7/10

Direction: 8/10

Cinematography: 8/10

Acting: 7/10

Editing: 8/10

Sound: 8/10

Score/Soundtrack: 7/10

Production Design: 8/10

Casting: 9/10

Effects: 7/10

Overall Score: 7.7/10

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