Caught Stealing

“Baby, I’m a gangster too, and it takes two clans to defeat a boy and a cat.” Or whatever Lana Del Rey once said.

With Caught Stealing, Darren Aronofsky presents what may be the most accessible film of his career. On the surface, that sounds promising — but is it really?

Set in late-1990s New York, the story follows Hank Thompson, an ordinary guy who—thanks to the recklessness of his trouble-making neighbor—finds himself caught in a life-or-death situation. Suddenly pursued by several different criminals, Hank is dragged into a very chaotic chain of events.

The film features a star-studded cast: Austin Butler, Zoë Kravitz, Regina King, and Matt Smith. All of them handle their roles well. Regina King brings her unmistakable charisma, Zoë Kravitz embodies independence and defiance, while Matt Smith is surprisingly funny in a punkish role. Austin Butler plays someone caught between being a vulnerable alcoholic and a tough guy — it’s never entirely clear, but he looks convincing enough on screen.

What emerges is a strange mix of comedy, action, drama, black humor, and thriller. As a viewer, you’re never fully sure what kind of film you’re watching. It is colorful, decently shot, and sprinkled with shocking moments that are supposed to surprise you—though, to be honest, they rarely do. You find yourself immersed in this blend without fully understanding why you’re watching it or what the film is trying to say. And when the ninety minutes are over, that question still lingers.

Aronofsky has made a film that feels too safe, with characters that are too neatly defined and never allowed to be anything else. The story lacks something to truly hold onto. As a result, those ninety minutes rush past like a flashy shell—bright and noisy, but ultimately empty.

5/10