While Ocean’s 8 has set a new franchise-best with it’s opening weekend numbers, did it manage to recreate the ‘wow’ of 11… the movie that started it all? Well, no. But at least we’re not totally in barney (*said in a poor English accent).
It should say something that after a pair just ‘ok’ additions to the franchise, people – including myself – still trust the Ocean’s brand to deliver a compelling caper. And Ocean’s 8 probably did that for some… but I’m not convinced. While I do like that Ocean’s 8 chose to deliver a less convoluted plot than it’s predecessors, this same simplicity of heist execution extended to conflict between characters. And this is where I think the movie fails to build a case for caring.
Sandra Bullock gives a predictable performance as Debbie Ocean, although her supporting cast is mostly flat and serves to cheerlead themselves or Debbie with little thought given. Lou (Cate Blanchett) offers the only spark of dissent, which is resolved within 20sec of screen time. Beyond that, the stress and emotional complexity created by 8 (mostly) strangers involved in a high-profile heist that could result in the incarceration or worse for each of them goes completely ignored. There is an exception, however: Helena Bonham Carter (Rose) does a fantastic job of realizing her character even with limited dialogue. That being said, her fabulous performance further illustrates the generic writing and approach of many of the characters she’s surrounded by.
It isn’t all negative. The pacing remains consistent throughout the film and director Gary Ross does a commendable job of hitting the expected Ocean’s beats… maybe even edging out Steven Soderbergh’s later efforts. The all female cast didn’t feel forced and was explained – albeit briefly – in a compelling way. In fact, I wish some of the time devoted to pickpocket tropes had instead been spent more thoroughly highlighting the advantages of being a female in this line of work.
Is Ocean’s 8 worth the watch? Sure. Probably. It’s engaging enough to keep you from checking your watch and it’s neutral enough that you can invite any of your friends. That being said, it just doesn’t touch the excitement of seeing Ocean’s 11 for the first time. But it’s still better than 12.
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