Film Review: Ocean's 13

Well, Ocean’s Thirteen is an enjoyable film on many levels. Primarily, it uses the successful formula of the previous films, centering on the near impossible heist. The premise of this chapter is that Danny Ocean (Clooney) and his men have to avenge their comrade Reuben (Gould), who has been double-crossed by the crook hotelier Willie Bank (Pacino). To do this they decide to ruin the opening night of Banks’ casino. This is made difficult by the venue’s new AI security system, which allegedly cannot be fooled. Needless to say, the scheme concocted by the group is highly ingenious, albeit implausible, contributing to a complicated storyline.

Al Pacino is a suitably dastardly villain, although at times he reminded me of Alan Sugar.

As in the previous two films, Soderbergh’s direction is slick and witty. In particular, he ensures the tempo never lags, as jump-cut after jump-cut take the viewer through the fast-paced world of the casino heist. Storylines are communicated through a few, well-chosen shots, meaning that the audience is never patronised. The use of graphics is also imaginative, adding to the film’s highly stylised feel. The performances are excellent, particularly from Clooney and Pitt, who play off each other remarkably well. Al Pacino is a suitably dastardly villain, although at times he reminded me of Alan Sugar, which was a little disconcerting.

So, why go see another franchise movie? See it because it retains what made the first two episodes so charming: a complex plot, snappy dialogue and a stylish aesthetic. Don’t see it if you want a new slant on diamond heists or some dramatic character development. Like many of the third instalments out this year, Ocean’s Thirteen is not bringing something new to the world of cinema. It is, however, re-using a very good idea, which makes it a good film in its own right and a thoroughly enjoyable night out.

Ocean’s Thirteen is out now and showing at the City Screen and VUE, Clifton Moor Centre