Ocean’s 8 (2018)
Its powerhouse of female leads elevates Ocean’s 8 and they deliver in the midst of a poor - and loophole studded - script.
What is Ocean’s 8 about?
Debbie Ocean gathers an all-female crew to attempt an impossible heist at New York City's yearly Met Gala. (from IMDB)
My review of Ocean’s 8
The fashion is absolutely divine. I love how each outfit is so thoughtfully chosen for the character wearing it - considering that the script doesn't give much in terms of character depth and development, the costumes are very much needed. They're colourful, elegant, and speak volumes about the characters' personalities. Each piece is entirely on point.
The script is far from perfect. The writing isn't witty or particularly clever, and the loopholes abound from start to finish.
There's also no real threat, or at least there's not enough urgency. It's too casual. Obviously, the worst-case scenario is that the characters go to prison, and yet that is never truly felt by anyone, except maybe with the exception of Debbie. The difference with her is that we're given her back story and we can feel sympathy for her because we know where she's coming from. With the rest of the characters, we don't actually see what they have to lose. Thus, the fact that they could be caught doesn't seem like a big deal.
On the flip side, this is fantastic escapism. On the first watch, I did find it underwhelming. But after rewatching it five times (yes, I did) I love how much fun it is. It’s so entertaining, funny, and the actresses just make it work.
Sandra Bullock and Cate Blanchett in Ocean’s 8 | from IMDB
The acting is excellent. Sandra Bullock and Cate Blanchett are effortlessly slick and smooth, and Cate Blanchett is easily my favourite of the cast. These actresses are all excellent in their roles, even if the characters are one-dimensional.
No one has any real depth, and they’re all pigeon-holed into their roles in the heist. There's the hacker, the fence, the jeweller, etc etc, and even the hints of backstory and personality we get to see aren't substantial. It's a huge waste; the actresses deserved better.
