How to Rob a Bank: A Mismatched Attempt at Social Commentary
David Leitch’s latest film, “How to Rob a Bank,” positions itself as an anti-capitalist commentary set against a turbulent social backdrop. Despite featuring a compelling cast including Nicholas Hoult, Anna Sawai, and Pete Davidson, it struggles to deliver the punch one might expect from a storyline thick with rebellion and activism.
In trying to echo societal discontent, the film crafts a tale where disenfranchised individuals turn into modern-day Robin Hoods. These Pittsburgh natives, affected by systemic issues like healthcare and financial exploitation, decide to not only rob banks but disseminate their tactics online, gaining viral popularity. However, their digital appeal is portrayed with an outdated flair, failing to resonate with the cutting-edge digital age of its intended setting.
Nicholas Hoult plays the leader, Ryan, whose motivation seems to emanate from disenchantment rather than a fiery revolutionary spirit. His partner, Emi, portrayed by Anna Sawai, unfortunately does not get enough depth or presence on screen to solidify her role. Their cohort includes Vince, infused with Pete Davidson’s unique flair, and Hugo, played by Rhenzy Feliz. Despite this dynamic group, the characters lack a striking chemistry, often leaving dialogues feeling flat.
Layered over this narrative is an exhausted FBI agent, nearing retirement, played by John C. Reilly. He ropes in a tech-savvy hacker, brought to life by Zoë Kravitz in a role reminiscent of her previous work but diluted into a cliché.
Given Leitch’s history of creating films like “Deadpool 2” and “Bullet Train,” “How to Rob a Bank” seems subdued, with action taking a backseat. The pacing drags, particularly as viewers expect a fast-paced heist film that challenges its audience’s perspectives. Instead, it settles for a sluggish two-hour journey, more methodical than thrilling.
The film’s soundtrack, featuring tracks from The Hives and Lily Allen, feels out of sync with the narrative’s modern-day digital revolution, further disconnecting its attempts at relevance. By aiming to critique today’s societal challenges, the film might have benefitted from engaging creators who genuinely understand the modern digital landscape.
While the film is intended to resonate with audiences as a reflection of contemporary issues, it misses its mark. Instead of capturing the essence of current socio-economic struggles, it provides a mere sketch, sporadically lined with outdated stereotypes and mannerisms.
Ultimately, “How to Rob a Bank” demonstrates the difficulty of translating complex social issues into engaging cinema. It stands as a reminder that strong intent needs equally powerful execution to truly captivate and inform audiences in a meaningful way.
Photo by Colin Lloyd on Unsplash
