The Instigators is derivative. Its premise is decent, but the script shuffles through arbitrary contrivances from there. Backstories are slightly peppered in, yet the setup for these drama elements is little and late, rendering their payoff unimpactful. Meanwhile, potential themes like political corruption and alcoholism are played as jokes rather than anything of substance. There's mediocre banter, convenient resolution, aimless stakes, average set pieces, pointless side threads, cartoonish realism, and lacking focus. The acting provides organic chemistry that comes from a real-life friendship, but everyone is one-note. Consequently, The Instigators is forgettable.
Technically, The Instigators is stale. Its direction has minor creativity and clunky tones. The standard cinematography is nothing expressive. Cutting between repetitive filler and interchangeable scenes, its editing fumbles momentum. The sound utilizes action alongside a few split cuts and smash inserts. Its music offers a couple noticeable needle drops but is generally generic. Similarly, the nonspecific production design fails to convey the desired sense of Boston. Its famous cast is why anyone cares about this movie, yet their talents are woefully squandered. The effects pair adequate stunts with cheap CGI. Ultimately, The Instigators is disposable streaming content.
Writing: 3/10
Direction: 3/10
Cinematography: 5/10
Acting: 6/10
Editing: 4/10
Sound: 6/10
Score/Soundtrack: 5/10
Production Design: 5/10
Casting: 8/10
Effects: 5/10
Overall Score: 5.0/10
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