Key Takeaways:
– Steven Soderbergh revitalized heist films with the successful trilogy, ‘Ocean’s 11‘.
– Soderbergh aimed to diverge from the conventional aggressive heist narratives, demonstrated by Quentin Tarantino’s ‘Reservoir Dogs‘.
– The slated prequel will focus on the character Danny Ocean’s parents with Ryan Gosling and Margot Robbie in lead roles.
Steven Soderbergh’s Unique Approach to Heist Films
A groundbreaking move by acclaimed filmmaker Steven Soderbergh consisted of breathing new life into the classic heist film ‘Ocean’s 11’. The film created a buzz, starring big names like George Clooney, Brad Pitt, and Matt Damon, and eventually going down in history as a beloved classic and the highest-grossing movie of Soderbergh’s career.
A Different Kind of Heist
Soderbergh had intentions that went far beyond just creating a spectacular heist film. He endeavored to curate a cinematic experience that sharply diverged from conventional heist movies. One such movie that served as a keen point of contrast was Quentin Tarantino’s 1992 crime thriller. Unlike ‘Reservoir Dogs’, Soderbergh saw ‘Ocean’s 11’ as an opportunity to color outside the aggressive crime lines that often characterize heist films.
In a discussion with the BBC, Soderbergh expressed his desire to make a film that stood apart from the violent and profane tone of ‘Reservoir Dogs’. He painstakingly avoided the mean, aggressive tone and instead added a flavor of charm and elegance to his movie. This was quite tricky, as he revealed, but he managed to find that fine balance between an elaborate, technically refined side of the film and a casual offhand quality to its performances.
A New Standard Set
His unique approach to the heist narrative led to a film that not only swept up audiences with its captivating storyline and relaxed, non-aggressive tone, but also set a new standard for ensemble heist films. The camaraderie and respect among characters and the absence of aggressiveness and profanity showcased a fresh narrative scope in the genre, leaving a long-lasting impact on audiences and raising the bar for future films.
Looking Ahead: The Ocean’s 11 Prequel
While fans are left wondering if the original cast will ever reunite, there is good news to look forward to. The studio announced a prequel focusing on the character Danny Ocean’s parents, where Ryan Gosling and Margot Robbie will carry the story forward. Although details are scant, the prequel is said to be set in 1960s Europe.
Funny enough, George Clooney, who played the titular character in the trilogy, had an amusing reaction to the casting. After hearing Robbie potentially playing his mother and Gosling his father, he humorously remarked it made sense, expressing excitement about the new project.
In Conclusion
Soderbergh’s take on ‘Ocean’s 11’ showcases how a heist film can escape the constraints of typical narratives, still managing to captivate audiences and transform a genre. Fans are now eagerly waiting to see his vision brought to life once again in the upcoming prequel.
For those who wish to walk down memory lane, the ‘Ocean’s 11’ trilogy is available on Prime Video. Fans can also stream ‘Reservoir Dogs’ on the same platform.
