Kelly Reichardt’s "The Mastermind" Starring Josh O’Connor: A Cinematic Heist with Depth
A Nostalgic Journey into the World of Crime
When the jazz-infused, jittery opening of Kelly Reichardt’s latest masterpiece, "The Mastermind," graces the screen with slow, vertically crawling title cards in a Bauhaus-like font, audiences are transported back in time—where nostalgia meets suspense. Shot on film with a grainy warmth, this film encapsulates the essence of a sleepy 1970s New England town while paying homage to the cinematic classics of that era.
The Set-Up: More Than Just a Heist
"The Mastermind" transcends the traditional heist movie narrative, diving deep into the aftermath of crime. Following J.B. Mooney, played with brooding charm by Josh O’Connor, we watch as this art thief spirals into chaos during an ill-fated attempt to steal Arthur Dove’s abstract paintings from a fictional Massachusetts museum. This job threatens to upend not only J.B.’s illegal escapades but also his family life, which is further complicated by his father, played by Bill Camp, a curmudgeonly local judge with a disdain for modern art.
The Craft of Kelly Reichardt: A Study in Atmospheric Storytelling
Reichardt, who masterfully writes and directs, immerses the audience in the slow-burn aftermath of J.B.’s catastrophic hubris, showcasing her unique observational style. As we delve deeper into the consequences of the heist, it becomes evident that the film is a reflection on consequences and human flaws, much like her previous works such as "Night Moves" and "Meek’s Cutoff."
With cinematographer Christopher Blauvelt and costumer Amy Roth, Reichardt crafts a period-rich atmosphere that is intoxicating to behold. The film’s mustardy polyester, corduroy-browns, and retro fuzziness evoke a visceral sense of time, reminding audiences of the genius of her dear friend Todd Haynes.
J.B. Mooney: The Charismatic, Flawed Antihero
Disheveled and charmingly louche, J.B. is an unemployed carpenter living in a quiet suburban neighborhood with his wife Terri (played by Alana Haim) and their two twin boys. Universal struggles like debt and family obligations accentuate the weight of J.B.’s double life as a petty thief. His gradual descent into crime is portrayed with an almost tragic tenderness, particularly during mundane family dinners that juxtapose with the mounting tension of the film.
J.B.’s character seems to be on a collision course with destiny from the film’s outset. His attempts to pull off the heist unravel catastrophically, plunging him deeper into an existential crisis that becomes a compelling study of selfishness and privilege amidst a backdrop of socioeconomic unrest and the Vietnam War.
The Heist: A Tense and Thrilling Sequence
The heist itself is a masterclass in tension, artfully edited into a nail-biting montage that expertly switches focus between inside the museum and J.B.’s waiting ’64 Chevy Nova. As the plot unfolds, Reichardt captures the excruciating moments of anticipation and disaster, immersing audiences in a visceral experience often reserved for action-packed blockbusters.
Themes of Race and Class: A Layer of Social Commentary
While the heist and its fallout dominate the narrative, Reichardt subtly intertwines essential themes of race and class. The dynamic between J.B.’s mostly white circle and the potential consequences faced by his Black associate, Ronnie Gibson, becomes a pivotal moment. Although these topics are approached with only a surface-level examination, they enrich the narrative tapestry of "The Mastermind."
A Soundtrack That Elevates the Mood
The atmospheric jazz score from Rob Mazurek evokes a mood as meticulously crafted as the film’s visuals. Influences from legends like Sun Ra and John Coltrane envelop the audience, deepening their immersion into J.B.’s world as they experience his inner turmoil and the chaos of his life choices.
Conclusion: An Unconventional Take on Genre
Despite its compelling narrative and layered social commentary, "The Mastermind" may challenge mainstream audiences unaccustomed to Reichardt’s slow-burn storytelling. The film eventually reaches a darkly comedic conclusion that feels reminiscent of classic French arthouse cinema. Yet, just as J.B. grapples with his choices, Reichardt confronts genre conventions on her own terms, successfully crafting a work that resonates on multiple levels.
Final Thoughts
In a landscape filled with formulaic thrillers, Kelly Reichardt’s "The Mastermind" is a breath of fresh air. It’s a thought-provoking exploration of ambition, crime, and the complexities of human nature. As the film prepares for a wider release through MUBI, it stands out as a treasure waiting to be discovered by audiences ready to embrace both the thrill and the thoughtful exploration it offers.
Grade: B
“The Mastermind” premiered at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival and is set for theatrical release later this year.
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