The Instigators is a refreshing take on the classic heist genre, balancing humor and surprising plot turns with a stellar cast that brings depth and charm to their roles.
Rory (Matt Damon) is about as good at robbery as a penguin is at flying. But when he’s desperate for cash, he gets roped into an ill-judged scheme to heist Boston’s mayor (Ron Perlman) with the fast-talking ex-con Cobby (Casey Affleck). When things go sideways, they make a run for it, putting their “skills” in negotiation, getaway driving, and stealth to the test with all of New England hot on their heels. In a moment of panic-induced brilliance, they “borrow” Rory’s therapist (Hong Chau), who reluctantly becomes their voice of reason. The Instigators is a Boston film through and through, portraying the city’s rough-around-the-edges charm, wind-whipped docks, and the concrete eyesore that is City Hall.
Reuniting after two decades, director Doug Liman and Matt Damon bring an unexpected wave of nostalgia. Remiscent of Bourne Identity (2002), Liman blends moodiness and epic car chases with the slapstick comedy penned by the Boston boys, Chuck MacLean and Casey Affleck. Meanwhile, Damon and Affleck ground the movie with their authentic hometown charm and chemistry, stripping away the glossy veneer typically associated with the heist genre.
While the plot occasionally stumbles, the witty banter between the characters and the movie's laugh-out-loud moments easily overshadow these hiccups. It’s not the heist of the century, but it’s a welcome addition to the summer movie lineup.