Caught Stealing

Caught Stealing is a wild, gritty, and darkly funny ride through the seedy underbelly of late '90s New York City. Directed by Darren Aronofsky and based on Charlie Huston’s novel, this black comedy crime thriller stars Austin Butler as Hank Thompson, a washed-up ex-baseball player turned bartender who finds himself way over his head after agreeing to pet-sit his neighbor’s cat. What starts as a simple favor quickly spirals into a chaotic mess involving Russian mobsters, corrupt cops, drug dealers, and a whole lot of bad luck.

The film leans into its noir roots with a modern twist, blending violence, humor, and a touch of absurdity. Aronofsky, known for his intense and often heavy films, takes a surprisingly playful turn here, and it works. Critics have praised the movie for its energetic direction and Butler’s standout performance, which anchors the madness with just the right mix of charm and desperation.

The supporting cast is stacked, featuring Regina King, Zoë Kravitz, Matt Smith, Liev Schreiber, Vincent D’Onofrio, and Bad Bunny (credited as Benito A. Martínez Ocasio), among others. Each brings their own flavor to the film’s colorful and dangerous world. The soundtrack, composed by Rob Simonsen and performed by British post-punk band Idles, adds a raw, edgy vibe that perfectly matches the film’s tone.

Caught Stealing is definitely not your typical crime thriller. It’s got a quirky sense of humor, a lot of unexpected twists, and a protagonist who’s more of a reluctant survivor than a traditional hero. If you’re into movies that mix crime, comedy, and chaos—think a bit of Coen Brothers energy with a New York twist—this one’s for you.

On the flip side, if you prefer your thrillers more grounded or your comedies less violent, this might not be your cup of tea. It’s messy, loud, and unapologetically over-the-top at times. But for those who enjoy a fast-paced, offbeat story with a strong lead and a killer soundtrack, Caught Stealing delivers a fun and unpredictable ride.