All-star caper films still occur with regularity, the most recent being Logan Lucky, but this is the first one I recall with an all-female crew.  It follows Steven Soderbergh’s trilogy about Danny Ocean and his cohorts; Soderbergh executive produces this one, which references Danny’s untimely passing just this year (which may or may not be real, fictionally speaking).  In any case, this one follows the same pattern as the others, with one big heist, plus a couple of twists near the end.

Gary Ross’ film follows Danny’s sister Debbie Ocean (Sandra Bullock) as she leaves prison, promising to be good, all the while formulating her once-in-a-lifetime grab for the golden ring.  She recruits six other women with various talents (played by Cate Blanchett, Helena Bonham Carter, Mindy Kaling, Sarah Paulson, Rihanna and Awkwafina) and one more joins up a little later.  The heist is spectacular, executed cleverly and suspensefully, and is certainly entertaining.  Two twists occur afterward, one which I foresaw, one which I did not.  Each boosts the story’s likability in a measurable fashion.

A movie like this depends on the likability of its criminally-minded characters, and the depth and clarity of the con.  This film excels in both areas.  It’s hard not to root for these ladies — although things seem to go far more smoothly than one would believe possible.  In the end it’s merely an insurance scam, and everybody hates insurance, so the robbery itself has minimal dramatic liability.  The story might have benefitted from at least the threat of violence at some point, or more peril risked by these all-too-competent characters.  Yet the robbery itself is beautifully realized, an audacious spectacle in every way.

If you enjoyed watching Danny Ocean and his friends swindle Las Vegas casinos and such there is no reason to think you would object to the distaff version.  Women are just as confident and capable in the criminal realm, and might be better suited to it — at least according to this movie.  It isn’t great art, but it is an enjoyable caper adventure.  ☆ ☆ ☆.  24 June 2018.