The Instigators Review: Doug Liman Drops the Ball

The Instigators attempts to blend the high stakes of a heist thriller with the humor of a buddy comedy. But, despite its star-studded cast and the direction of Doug Liman, it ultimately fails to deliver a satisfying experience. The film is plagued by uneven pacing, underdeveloped characters, and a convoluted plot that never quite finds its footing.

One of the film’s primary issues is its lack of tonal consistency. While Liman is known for his ability to balance action and humor, as seen in films like Mr. & Mrs. Smith, The Instigators struggles to strike a similar balance. The comedic elements often feel forced, and the jokes frequently fall flat, detracting from the tension and urgency that a heist film should have. The film’s attempts at humor are particularly jarring during scenes that should be suspenseful. This makes it difficult for the audience to invest in the stakes of the story.

The performances are another mixed bag. Matt Damon and Casey Affleck, who have proven their chemistry in past collaborations, seem to be going through the motions here. Damon’s Rory, a Marine veteran with a complicated past, is never fully fleshed out, leaving the character feeling one-dimensional. Affleck’s portrayal of the down-and-out Cobby Murphy fares slightly better. Sadly, even his efforts are hampered by a script that doesn’t give him much to work with. The supporting cast, including Hong Chau and Michael Stuhlbarg, is largely wasted in roles that feel like afterthoughts rather than integral parts of the story.

The plot, while intriguing in concept, is marred by its execution. The heist itself, which should be the centerpiece of the film, is convoluted and difficult to follow. The film introduces multiple subplots, including political corruption and organized crime, but none of them are explored in enough depth to be truly engaging. Instead, they serve as distractions from the main narrative, making the story feel overstuffed and directionless.

Visually, the film has its moments, particularly in the chaotic scenes set in Boston. However, the action sequences are often poorly choreographed and lack the intensity that would make them memorable. Liman’s direction, usually sharp and dynamic, feels uninspired here. It’s as if the film is going through the motions without any real passion or creativity behind it.

Overall:

The Instigators is a disappointment, especially given the talent involved. While it has moments of potential, they are overshadowed by a lackluster script, uneven tone, and uninspired direction. Fans of heist films or the main actors may find some enjoyment, but for most viewers, this is a forgettable entry in the genre.