Kelly Reichardt‘s “The Mastermind“: A Unique Take on the Heist Genre

CANNES, France – Kelly Reichardt’s latest film, “The Mastermind,” premiered at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival and is set to hit select theaters on October 17, 2025. This film offers a fresh perspective on the heist genre, diverging from traditional narratives to explore the aftermath of crime rather than the heist itself.

A Nostalgic Cinematic Experience

From the moment the film begins, with its jazzy score and slow, vertically crawling title cards reminiscent of Bauhaus design, viewers are transported to a bygone era. Shot on film, “The Mastermind” captures the grainy warmth of a sleepy 1970s New England town, evoking not only the aesthetics of that decade but also the cinematic style of films from that period.

Reichardt, known for her meticulous storytelling, takes inspiration from iconic filmmakers like Jean-Pierre Melville and Sidney Lumet, yet infuses her own unique style into the narrative. The film stars Josh O’Connor as J.B. Mooney, an art thief whose poorly conceived plan to steal a series of Arthur Dove paintings from a fictional Massachusetts museum spirals out of control, affecting both his personal and family life.

The Aftermath of Crime

Unlike typical heist films that focus on the intricacies of the crime itself, “The Mastermind” delves into the consequences of J.B.’s actions. The film’s first act builds suspense as J.B. and his crew prepare for the heist, but the real tension lies in the aftermath. Reichardt’s script emphasizes the slow unraveling of J.B.’s life, showcasing the catastrophic hubris that leads him to believe he can pull off a robbery in such a small town, especially with his father, played by Bill Camp, serving as the local judge.

This focus on the aftermath aligns with Reichardt’s previous works, such as “Night Moves” (2013) and “Meek’s Cutoff” (2011), where she similarly explored the consequences of characters’ actions. The film’s atmosphere, crafted in collaboration with cinematographer Christopher Blauvelt and costume designer Amy Roth, immerses viewers in the 1970s, with its mustardy polyester and retro aesthetics.

A Complex Character Study

J.B. is portrayed as a disheveled yet charming character, living in a quiet Massachusetts suburb with his wife, Terri (Alana Haim), and their two sons. His life is marked by financial struggles, as he remains dependent on his wealthy parents. The film subtly weaves in the backdrop of the Vietnam War, with radio dispatches and television news providing a sense of impending doom that contrasts sharply with J.B.’s mundane existence.

As a former art history student, J.B. leads a double life as a petty art thief. The film opens with him stealing a small artifact from a museum, setting the stage for his larger, more ambitious heist. Reichardt introduces a ragtag group of accomplices who gather in J.B.’s basement, each character adding depth to the narrative. However, the film does not delve deeply into Terri’s inner life, leaving her character somewhat underexplored despite Haim’s compelling performance.

The Heist and Its Consequences

The heist itself is executed with nail-biting suspense, showcasing Reichardt’s ability to create tension. However, the film’s true focus is on the unraveling of J.B.’s life post-heist. As the plan goes awry, J.B. finds himself in a desperate situation, leading to a series of poor decisions that further complicate his life. The film’s exploration of racial dynamics is also noteworthy, particularly in the character of Ronnie Gibson, J.B.’s Black accomplice, who faces the harsh realities of systemic injustice.

Reichardt’s social commentary is subtle yet impactful, highlighting the disconnect between J.B.’s comfortable middle-class existence and the societal turmoil surrounding him. The film serves as a critique of privilege, illustrating how J.B. remains largely unaffected by the chaos of the outside world until his own actions catch up with him.

A Cinematic Mood Piece

“The Mastermind” is not just a heist film; it is a meditation on existential themes and the human condition. Reichardt’s signature style shines through in the film’s pacing and composition, with long takes and quiet moments that invite reflection. The jazz score, inspired by the likes of Bill Evans and John Coltrane, further enhances the film’s atmospheric quality, drawing viewers into its world.

While the film may challenge mainstream audiences with its slow burn and introspective nature, it resonates deeply with those familiar with Reichardt’s work. The film’s conclusion, marked by a darkly humorous final image, leaves viewers contemplating the complexities of J.B.’s character and the consequences of his choices.

Conclusion

In “The Mastermind,” Kelly Reichardt successfully redefines the heist genre by shifting the focus from the crime itself to its aftermath. Through the lens of J.B. Mooney’s life, the film explores themes of privilege, hubris, and the human condition, all set against the backdrop of a tumultuous era. As audiences prepare for its theatrical release, “The Mastermind” promises to be a thought-provoking addition to Reichardt’s impressive filmography, challenging viewers to reflect on the nature of crime and its far-reaching consequences.