Going In Style: A Hilarious Heist With Morgan Freeman

by Jhon Lennon 54 views

Hey guys! Let's dive into the fantastic world of Going in Style, the 2017 comedy heist film that's got everyone talking! And when I say everyone, I mean it – because we're talking about a movie starring the legendary Morgan Freeman, Michael Caine, and Alan Arkin. Talk about a dream team! This flick is a remake of the 1979 film of the same name, and it follows three lifelong buddies who decide to rob a bank after their pensions are canceled. Sounds crazy, right? But trust me, it's a wild and entertaining ride from start to finish. Let's get into what makes this movie so special, its amazing cast, and why you should totally check it out if you haven't already.

The Story: Banking on Friendship and a Bank Heist

So, the basic premise of Going in Style revolves around Joe, Willie, and Albert, played by Freeman, Caine, and Arkin, respectively. These guys have been friends forever, through thick and thin. Their lives take a sharp turn when the company they worked for decides to cut their pensions, leaving them in a financial bind. Joe, in particular, is in a tough spot, facing foreclosure on his house. After witnessing a bank robbery, Joe gets an idea: why not rob the bank himself? He convinces his buddies to join him, and the plan is hatched. This whole thing is what makes the plot a hilarious and heartwarming journey. From the planning stages, which are as shaky as their senior discounts, to the actual heist, it's a series of laugh-out-loud moments. You'll see their different personalities clash, their friendships tested, and their determination to come out on top, all while trying to pull off the perfect crime. There are moments of high tension, interspersed with moments of pure comedic genius, thanks to the witty writing and brilliant performances. They're not exactly seasoned criminals, so their journey is fraught with hilarious mishaps and near misses, making it all the more entertaining to watch. The film also touches on themes of aging, the struggles of the working class, and the enduring power of friendship. It's not just a comedy; there's a real heart to the story, which makes you root for these guys every step of the way. It's a reminder that it's never too late to take a stand and fight for what you believe in, even if it means bending the rules a little.

The Plot Thickens: Planning, Prep, and Plenty of Laughs

The most beautiful thing about the plot of Going in Style is the way it unfolds. First, we get to see the guys struggle with their new reality – no pensions, mounting bills, and the fear of losing everything they've worked for. The idea of robbing a bank comes to Joe almost spontaneously, but he's the one who starts the ball rolling. He then convinces Willie and Albert to join him. This part is gold, guys! Seeing these three old friends, who haven’t been involved in any criminal activity, trying to figure out how to pull off a bank heist is comedy gold. They have to deal with the practical side of it all. They seek advice from a small-time crook, played to perfection by John Ortiz, who gives them a crash course in the art of robbery. The planning stages are filled with comedic moments – from choosing the right disguise to figuring out how to handle a getaway car. The preparations are a riot. They practice at home, and their clumsy attempts to learn the tricks of the trade are hilarious. The film brilliantly uses humor to highlight the absurdity of their situation. The film emphasizes that these are not hardened criminals; they are ordinary guys pushed to the edge. The plot includes a series of close calls and unexpected twists. Each heist attempt, as they gather more confidence, adds another layer of suspense. The guys are always close to being caught. You'll find yourself on the edge of your seat.

The Heist: High Stakes and Hilarious Mishaps

When it comes to the heist itself, Going in Style really shines. The actual bank robbery scenes are brilliantly executed, with a perfect blend of suspense and humor. You'll be on the edge of your seat one moment and laughing the next. The filmmakers create a feeling of tension as the guys navigate through the bank, trying to stay calm and follow their meticulously laid plans. There are moments where you think they'll get caught, and the tension is palpable. The film also uses the element of surprise really well. As they try to remain undetected, they interact with the hostages, and these interactions provide some of the funniest scenes in the movie. The unexpected events happen when they least expect them. Every mistake, every misstep, and every unexpected turn of events only adds to the comedic effect. The guys' ineptitude in the face of criminal activity is part of the charm. They're not hardened criminals; they are regular guys trying to get their money back. The film also cleverly uses the element of time. The heist is a race against time. The pressure intensifies as the clock ticks down, which intensifies the comedic and dramatic stakes. They always have to deal with unexpected obstacles. The climax of the heist is the ultimate test of their friendship. It's a testament to their love for each other and the risks they're willing to take. The way they pull it off is pretty darn clever, and the audience can't help but cheer them on. They are the underdogs, the unlikely heroes, and it is a blast to watch them in action.

The Cast: A Trio of Legendary Talent

Alright, let's talk about the real stars of the show – Morgan Freeman, Michael Caine, and Alan Arkin. Seriously, what a lineup! These three are absolute legends, and their chemistry on screen is off the charts. Each actor brings their own unique flair to the characters, making them feel real and relatable.

Morgan Freeman as Joe: The Brains of the Operation

Morgan Freeman, who plays Joe, the ringleader of this heist, is as cool as a cucumber. His calm demeanor and commanding presence make him the perfect leader. Freeman infuses Joe with a sense of dignity and resolve, which makes you root for him every step of the way. He's the one who comes up with the plan, the one who keeps everyone focused, and the one who believes in his friends. He plays it perfectly. You can tell Freeman's experience and skill are second to none as he subtly communicates Joe's internal struggles. He’s facing financial ruin and the film does a great job of showing how Joe’s determination is driven by a deep sense of responsibility to his family. His performance is a blend of stoicism and warmth. He's able to portray both the serious and the comedic aspects of the character. Freeman's performance is pivotal in humanizing the story. He really gives the film its heart.

Michael Caine as Willie: The Worried Friend

Michael Caine brings his own flavor to the role of Willie, the worrywart of the group. Caine is a veteran of the screen and you can tell. His character is constantly concerned and anxious about everything, but his loyalty to his friends is unwavering. He brings a level of vulnerability to the role that balances out Freeman's strength. Willie is dealing with health issues. He also has a deep emotional connection with his friends, and Caine does a great job of conveying that. His interactions with his buddies are pure gold, and you'll find yourself laughing at his funny reactions and antics. The role of Willie is a reminder that friendship is about being there for each other, no matter what. Caine’s performance is a brilliant mixture of humor and pathos. Caine's portrayal of Willie is nuanced and heartwarming.

Alan Arkin as Albert: The Grouchy Genius

Finally, we have Alan Arkin, who, as Albert, brings the much-needed dose of grumpiness and comedic genius. Arkin is an absolute treasure, and his performance is one of the highlights of the movie. Albert is the cynical one of the group, but underneath his tough exterior is a soft heart. His sarcastic remarks and deadpan delivery are always on point. You can't help but laugh at his antics, from his witty banter with his friends to his hilarious interactions with other characters. Albert is the source of many of the funniest moments in the film. Arkin's ability to deliver sarcastic lines with perfect timing is simply unmatched. He can make you laugh with a single glance. Arkin's performance adds a layer of depth and humor to the film. The character of Albert is more than just the grouchy old man. Arkin shows his character’s transformation and his loyalty to his friends, which makes him even more endearing. His performance is a testament to his talent and versatility as an actor.

Why You Should Watch Going in Style

If you haven't seen Going in Style yet, seriously, what are you waiting for? It's a fantastic movie that ticks all the boxes. It's funny, heartwarming, and full of action.

Reasons to watch:

  • Amazing Cast: As if the acting of Morgan Freeman, Michael Caine, and Alan Arkin wasn't enough, the supporting cast is excellent too, and they do a great job in making the characters come to life. Also, the chemistry between the actors is something special. They have worked together previously, and the connection between them is palpable. Each actor is bringing something unique, which makes the movie even better.
  • Relatable Story: The themes of friendship, family, and facing adversity will resonate with audiences of all ages. The movie touches on universal themes of aging, financial insecurity, and the importance of relationships, which makes it feel incredibly relevant. You'll find yourself empathizing with the characters and rooting for them to succeed. The story is a reminder of how important it is to be there for each other.
  • Heartwarming Humor: The film is packed with laugh-out-loud moments, and the humor is genuinely funny. The comedic timing of the actors is spot-on. The film never loses sight of the emotional heart of the story. The humor is integrated with the story and plot in a way that makes it more meaningful. The film balances humor and heart, which makes it engaging. You'll leave the theater with a smile on your face and a warm feeling in your heart.
  • Perfect for a Movie Night: It's the kind of movie you can watch with your family and friends. It's a great choice for a movie night. The pacing is perfect, and the story is easy to follow. You can enjoy the movie with some popcorn and drinks, which makes for a perfect movie-watching experience.

Final Thoughts

Going in Style is a must-watch film. It's a great choice for anyone looking for a fun, entertaining movie with a big heart. With its stellar cast, engaging story, and hilarious moments, it's a film you won't want to miss. So, grab your friends, pop some popcorn, and get ready for a wild ride with these three unlikely bank robbers. You won't regret it! And remember, guys, sometimes, you just gotta go in style.