In the “final” (there have been rumors of a continuation) film to the ever-popular Ocean’s trilogy, we find Danny and gang mixed up in yet another wacky heist. The gang returns in Ocean’s 13, only the question on everyone’s mind is; will Linus finally get his big break?
Ocean’s 13 (2007) Film Review
Since their travels overseas, the gang parts, each enjoying their wealth. Reuben (Elliot Gould) uses his share to enter a partnership with the ruthless, Willy Banks (Al Pacino). His plan is to open the best and hottest casino on the strip, little knowing that Banks has scheming plans. When Willy twists Reuben’s arm (literally!) into selling his half, Reuben seems to decide life is no longer worth living and goes into a deep depression. As soon as Rusty (Brad Pitt) hears about it, he and Danny (George Clooney) make plans. Joined again by Linus (Matt Damon), Bashar (Don Cheadle) and the Malloy brothers’ (Casey Affleck, Scott Caan). Wanting to help their friend, they set out to make a foolproof plan.
Step one involves staking out Bank’s new hotel, which may turn out to be a problem when it comes to getting by his right hand “man” Abigail Sponder (Ellen Barkin). When they realize they need capitol, their only option may be Terry Benedict (Andy Garcia). After this, things should be smooth sailing… right?
FILM REVIEW | ‘OCEAN’S 12’: THE GANG RETURNS TO PULL OFF ANOTHER FLAWLESS HEIST
‘OCEAN’S 13’ IS THIRD IN GEORGE CLOONEY HEIST COMEDY. #GeorgeClooney returns for film three along with #MattDamon. Click To Tweet
Critics think this somewhat redeems the Ocean’s trilogy after being unkind to Ocean’s Twelve. These aren’t my sentiments. Ocean’s 13 is my least favorite of the three. It’s still clever (in fact it may be the best there), but it also tends to be the most confusing heist of the bunch and it seems a bit duller than expect. With such a movie as this, you anticipate something with a faster pace but don’t get. I also miss the absence of Roberts and Zeta-Jones’ characters (at least they aren’t forgotten). Still, having the same cast from the original is a huge advantage. The camaraderie continually builds in each addition and that is one thing we, as viewers find so entertaining.
Once again where this does score points is an agreeable screenplay. I love how the script manages to be nonsensical. Characters can have a conversation about personal matters, before turning effortlessly back to the job they’re pulling. It’s well written without being confusing or just “ridiculous,” and each time it happens, we laugh. The best part of all though is Damon’s role. Once again he’s brilliant. Writers do well showing the gradual difference in his character, unlike when first we meet him; just see if you can keep a straight face with the “nose” guise.
What makes these blockbusters work is the fact that they are clever, no matter what anyone says about them. True on the surface they’re just “entertaining,” however if you really “think” about the plot, it’s very involved and intelligent. Just when you think you have something figured out, everything turns upside down and something completely different starts happening when you least expect it. That is what I so enjoy about these, they aren’t typical.
If this is to be the last in the series, it satisfies fans, but leaves doors open to the possibility that we may yet see our favorite gang of thieves back together for another con. Bringing Benedict back is fantastic and you cannot help but cheer at the result of this. Even with its faults, Ocean’s 13 is a blast, if you just want something fun, this is your ticket for a fantastically good time in Vegas.
PINTEREST PIN – SAVE & SHARE
Content: there is the usual run of profanity in a PG-13 film, which may include a use or two of the f-word. GD, shit, etc. There is innuendo and Rusty makes mention of women who “owe” him something. A couple fools around and his pants come down before they are interrupted. A plan makes someone ill with food and bed bugs.
Photos: Warner Bros.