- Sensibility: Other than some perhaps needless bits of arson and a oddly choregraphed gunfight, the film is surprisingly sensible.
- Cinematography: The film has some visual quirks, like some odd bits of slow-motion, but the visual direction is so artistically sound and unique that these oddities give the film more charm. The production design and lighting are excellent highlights, and there are shots sprinkled throughout that are legitimately jaw dropping.
- Energy: Has some great sequences, but many of the sequences feel disjunct or lack the proper narrative flow/connections to keep things moving seamlessly.
- Narrative: The story has a great premise and avoids a lot of the pitfalls of the crime-thriller genre. It's got a kind of realism that is rare in heist movies, where there's plenty of grit, and the problems encountered are not necessarily directly related to the jobs themselves. Frank's sudden reckless abandon in the end feels a bit unfounded, especially given his focus on establishing his life with what limited time he has.
- T-Points: The film received five bonus points: one for a great sequence holding face in court, one for the sequence breaking into the vault, one for the shots of sparks onto the camera, one for lights reflecting off the hood of a car, and one for an upside-down speech from a crime boss.
Undeniably great film from one of the all-time great directors. It's got such a strong artistic vision that it carries the film through some of its narrative issues.
Number of Watches: 1
