It’s a great year to be an Ocean’s Eleven fan! After the excitement around Wolfs featuring George Clooney and Brad Pitt, the dynamic duo’s former co-stars, Matt Damon and Casey Affleck, are making their big screen return together with the new heist comedy The Instigators.
The film brings a fresh take to the classic genre, thanks to the exciting direction of Doug Liman. The Apple TV+ production combines humor and action in a smart way, making it one of the year’s most surprising comedies.
Written by Affleck and Chuck MacLean (from City on a Hill), The Instigators successfully balances comedy and drama. As the second film from Damon and Ben Affleck’s company, Artists Equity, following their award-winning Air, The Instigators follows the pulse of Midnight Run, where things go wildly wrong.
Even when chaos ensues, Liman keeps the story moving smartly and coherently. He creates a new world for Damon that feels fresh and engaging. While the film might not keep you on the edge of your seat, it operates as an exciting, action-packed heist with pitch-black comedy that you’ll come to appreciate.
What Is ‘The Instigators’ About?
With an indie feel but strong box office appeal, especially in its opening scenes, the film introduces us to Rory, played by Damon. Rory is a struggling, despondent father and former Marine undergoing therapy. He is burdened by debt and is troubled by his relationship with his son.
Rory is in therapy at the VA with Dr. Rivera (Hong Chau), who helps him be more present with his feelings. Despite this, Rory is in urgent need of money and is willing to take any risk. Enter the heist masterminded by Richie DeChico (Alfred Molina) and Mr. Besegai (Michael Stuhlbarg), petty criminals who plan an eventually botched job.
Besegai recruits Scalvo (Jack Harlow), a young, dim-witted criminal seeking redemption after a failed robbery, and Cobby (Affleck), a small-time crook who has hit rock bottom due to abandonment and betrayal issues. Rory and Cobby, having nothing to lose, agree to assist in Besegai’s heist to rob the office of corrupt Mayor Miccelli (Ron Perlman) on election night.
However, things quickly go wrong when Scalvo’s information turns out to be inaccurate. Murphy’s Law kicks in, and everything that can go wrong does. Rory and Cobby find themselves in a tight spot, pursued throughout Boston by both the mob and the police.
Adding to the pressure, Detective Frank Toomey (Ving Rhames) is on their tail, driving around Boston in a giant Special Ops vehicle. Rory enlists the help of his therapist, Dr. Rivera, who joins him and Cobby on an adventure. Dr. Rivera provides valuable guidance to the two out-of-their-depth characters during a thrilling car chase reminiscent of The Bourne Identity.
‘The Instigators’ Thrives With Its All-Star Cast
One of the film’s strengths is how it remains true to its genre. Damon and Affleck deliver genuine performances, showing raw emotion in their blue-collar characters. Rory is a man actively seeking help, a struggle that many face. Damon portrays Rory with depth, bringing a lot of heart to his role.
Affleck’s character, Cobby, is emotionally closed off, but the film reveals his motives through his past, showcasing a profound and likable performance from Affleck. The film is supported by a strong cast, including the sharp Rhames and the neurotic Stuhlbarg. Chau shines as a voice of reason, adding new layers to the story.
The supporting cast also impresses. Molina’s Richie brings extra dimension to the role, and Perlman’s portrayal of a corrupt, ambitious politician is spirited and effective. Paul Walter Hauser’s Booch deserves more screen time, but the scenes he shares with Affleck and Damon are lively and contribute to the film’s chaotic energy.
The Instigators addresses mental health in a thoughtful way, without being preachy. Damon, known for his stoic roles, shows a man with real feelings as Rory. He works through his emotions with his therapist in a calm and sincere manner.
Cobby also benefits from Dr. Rivera’s methods, adding depth to the film. The film portrays recovery and growth with a dose of dry humor. While it doesn’t make grand statements, it highlights the dark realities veterans face with PTSD struggles.
The film also features an impressive car chase sequence set in Back Bay, Boston. This sequence is filled with tight shots that draw the viewer in. The chase is exciting and chaotic, with Rivera and Cobby in the backseat while Rory drives. The mix of action and calm therapy sessions adds humor and keeps the audience engaged.
The Instigators combines heartfelt moments with action and humor, creating a smart, punchy heist comedy. With a witty script and a charming cast led by Damon and Affleck, it’s a film that balances fun with depth, making it enjoyable for repeated viewing.
