Lying and Stealing

Lying and Stealing, directed by Matt Aselton, is a gripping heist film with a good blend of romance, crime, and suspense. Released in 2019 and featuring the charismatic Theo James alongside the beautiful Emily Ratajkowski, this movie explores the world of art theft and the lengths one man goes through to free himself from the clutches of his criminal past.

Ivan Warding, portrayed by the enigmatic Theo James, is the central character in the plot's twists and turns. Coming from an infamous lineage of art thieves, Ivan is a seasoned criminal adept at stealing priceless art pieces, using his suaveness and intelligence. However, he is a man in a crisis, yearning to escape his tangled past but entangled in the sordid world of ruthless organized crime. Ivan must repay his debt to dangerous underworld operatives, while not falling into the FBI's dragnet, which is intensifying its hunt for art thieves.

Emily Ratajkowski, known for her dynamic performances, plays Elyse, an aspiring actress with her misunderstandings with the law. Mired in legal troubles and debt, her beautiful facade masks the desperation and determination within. It is the chance encounter between Elyse and Ivan that creates a fascinating dynamic, adding a tantalizing romantic flavor to the rapidly unfolding events.

In the midst of their individual struggles, a romance blossoms between Ivan and Elyse, but their growing intimacy breeds its own set of complications. Their union intensifies their conviction to escape their dark pasts and start anew, but the path isn't easy as they find themselves spiraling further into the world of crime.

Fred Melamed competently complements the lead duo with a menacing portrayal of Ivan's looming nemesis. Exploiting Ivan's desperation and weakness, he is a stark representation of the pitfalls of the grim underworld. The performances of James, Ratajkowski, and Melamed breathe life into Lying and Stealing's intriguing plot, complementing the script by Aselton and Adam Nagata.

The director effectively juggles genres from gritty action to tense drama to romantic innuendo, adding layers to characters and keeping the audience engaged and yearning for more. Lying and Stealing showcases a compelling cat-and-mouse chase set within the glitz and glamour of high society and the stark contrast with the underbelly's reality. It’s a well-crafted exploration of the incessant struggle between the desire for freedom and the constraints of duty, painting a riveting picture of manipulation, deception, and desperation.

The film's visual style creates an atmospheric setting that adds depth to the narrative. Julian Wass‘ painstakingly crafted score is another highlight that enhances the film's ambience. The visual and sonic dimensions work harmoniously, plunging viewers into the tense and thrilling world of art theft.

Lying and Stealing delves into intelligent heist scenarios, showing impressive strategization and execution. However, it equally highlights the moral dilemmas faced by its protagonists, adding a profound depth to their characters. It's not merely a story about theft and deceit but also signifies a desperate quest for redemption, love, and the profound human desire for a fresh start, illuminating the harsh truth that escaping one's past isn't as simple as it seems.

Stirring performances, a tight narrative, and commanding direction make Lying and Stealing a commendable cinematic experience. The emotions run high in this film, set against a backdrop of glamour and crime, and you'll find yourself entranced by the predicaments and triumphs of the lead characters. The movie skillfully intertwines the thrill of a heist plot, the subtlety of a romantic saga, and the intricacies of emotional turmoil, resulting in a compelling viewing experience.

In conclusion, Lying and Stealing presents a thrilling journey into the mesmerizing world of art theft entwined with a captivating romantic narrative. It is an engaging and, at times, stirring cinematic experience underscored by a well-written script and convincing performances, blending drama, crime, and love into a narrative that hooks you till the end. If you relish thought-provoking crime stories interspersed with romance, this movie is a sure bet.