The Instigators, a streaming feature on Apple TV+, has been met with lukewarm responses despite its high profile cast and resources. This arguably comedic thriller is centered on two incompetent crime associates trying to recover from an ill-executed theft. Boasting a respectable budget, a famous director, and a gifted ensemble, the result still falls flat, barely sparking interest even during its pivotal vehicular chase scene involving numerous Boston law enforcement.
Directed by Doug Liman, The Instigators aired one week in cinemas before becoming available for global streaming. This comedy-drama, co-written and starred by Casey Affleck, draws viewers due to the inclusion of A-listers Matt Damon and Casey Affleck. However, its mediocrity leaves it categorized as "passable entertainment", opening the door for critics to find innovative ways to express indifference.
One of the major flaws of the movie lies in its lack of commitment to being an action thriller, a buddy comedy, or a gritty crime drama. Instead of nailing one genre, it mediocres all three. The plot opens with Damon as Rory, an unemployed and divorced former Marine, who is deep in debt and embarks on a seemingly straightforward robbery scheme to pay for his legal fees and child support. However, things don't go to plan leading to comedic relief, individual character arcs, and a pursuit that should have serve as the movie's climax.
While casting does manage to salvage some elements of the irony in the odd partnership dynamics, the storyline lacks sufficient depth to characterize individual roles effectively. Liman's attempts to bring an unconventional edge through unique musical choices and scene structure, have failed to mask the dullness of the movie visually and thematically.
It’s disappointing to note that this comes from the director of successful entertainers like The Bourne Identity, Mr. & Mrs. Smith, and Edge of Tomorrow. Given this and his past less memorable works, it appears like The Instigators might fade into obscurity as well.
