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Criminal

Where to Watch Criminal

2004

Criminal, released in 2004, is an engaging crime thriller featuring several reputable actors such as John C. Reilly, Diego Luna, and Maggie Gyllenhaal in commanding roles. The movie is an American remake of an Argentine film, Nine Queens, directing and written by Gregory Jacobs. The gripping narrative’s uniqueness lies in its rich characterizations and electrifying plot turns, taking the audience on a roller coaster ride that encapsulates the world of charismatic con-artists and their dangerous games.

The movie opens up in Los Angeles and smartly centers in and around its bustling environment. The city, thus, becomes more than just a backdrop – it plays an integral role in the story progression, inviting the audience into its life. The narrative kicks off with the introduction of two main characters. John C. Reilly plays the seasoned conman Richard Gaddis whose character exudes a certain level of charm that hides the underhanded tricks simmering underneath. Richard is savvy, manipulative, and lives by exploiting the weaknesses and greed of others to his advantage. He's a man who knows the crooked rules of his game and plays it with full gusto.

In comes the second main character, Rodrigo, played by Diego Luna, who is a budding con artist, struggling with his career choice due to moral obligations. Rodrigo is naïve, desperate, and is sucked into Richard’s world after being apprehended trying to pull a minor con at a casino. Richard, identifying his potential, decides to take Rodrigo under his wings. The chemistry between our unalike con-artists forms the crux of the narrative. Rodrigo's desperation and willingness to learn is reflected quite well against Richard's ruthless mentor-ship.

Painting a vivid picture of this fast-paced criminal lifestyle, the movie shows how they embark on a day of swindling filled with action, trickery, and clever manipulations. Each con they pull off forms a thread in the complex web of deceptions, each more convoluted than the last.

Amid this thrilling roller-coaster ride, Maggie Gyllenhaal's character enters the mix. She plays Valerie, Richard’s estranged sister who works as a concierge at a high-end hotel. She's a strong, independent woman who's had her share of betrayal and understands her brother's devious manipulations all too well. Gyllenhaal, with her brilliant performance, adds another layer to the plot, making the narrative more emotionally loaded. Despite their strained relationship, the siblings' paths cross due to the bigger scam Richard is aiming to pull off at her workplace.

The stakes rise as the plot unfolds, with the duo stumbling upon a high-value counterfeit currency scam that could potentially set them up for life. It is this particular con that becomes the beating heart of the movie, demonstrating an intricate, full-blown game of deceptions.

Criminal thrives on the performances of its lead characters. John C. Reilly delivers a powerful performance as Richard, giving a tangible edge to his morally ambiguous character. In the same vein, Diego Luna portrays Rodrigo's charm and desperation with a convincing sincerity that adds depth to his role. And, of course, Maggie Gyllenhaal's portrayal of Valerie is striking, adding an emotional heft to the plot. The well-displayed dynamic and tension between the central characters keep the audience glued to their screens.

The movie is far from your typical thriller. It springs unexpected twists and turns at every corner, keeping the audience on edge, playing its mind games not only on the unsuspecting victims in the movie but also on the viewers. It never diverts from its intrigue and thrill, taking you down a treacherous pathway of sleight of hand, dual meanings, and betrayal in a world where nothing is as it seems.

Criminal uses its gritty and murky narrative to explore themes of greed, morality, and familial relationships. The tight script, captivating storyline, and outstanding performances by the cast make the movie a nerve-racking exploration of the fedora-and-trench-coat world where a single misstep can make or break a con.

Overall, Criminal (2004) is a cleverly crafted crime thriller that firmly holds your interest while you are taken on a tour through the underbelly of Los Angeles. If the eccentric and adrenaline-filled world of con-artists is your cup of tea, this movie will provide a thoroughly enjoyable ride and keep you guessing until the very end.

Criminal is a Action, Comedy, Thriller movie released in 2004. It has a runtime of 87 Critics and viewers have rated it moderate reviews, with an IMDb score of 6.4. It also holds a MetaScore of 61.

How to Watch Criminal

Where can I stream Criminal movie online? Criminal is available to watch and stream, buy on demand, download at Amazon Prime, Kanopy, Apple TV, Amazon, Google Play, YouTube VOD, Vudu. Some platforms allow you to rent Criminal for a limited time or purchase the movie for downloading.

6.4/10
61/100
Director
Gregory Jacobs
Stars
John C. Reilly, Diego Luna, Maggie Gyllenhaal, Peter Mullan
Also directed by Gregory Jacobs