An adaptation of a 1980's ITV drama might not be the most obvious choice for Steve McQueen's much anticipated follow-up to his Best Picture winning 12 Years a Slave, but Widows is a film made up of much of the same vitality and voice. It is so much more than it appears to be on the surface. This is not another 'dumb' Hollywood blockbuster - this is a heist film with real sharpness and intelligence behind it.
When four criminals are killed in a heist gone wrong, their widows are forced to band together and pull off a heist of their own to clean up the mess left to them by their husbands.
One of the most interesting elements of this film is the blending of different tones and genres. There are so many aspects covered. The opening throws us right into some gripping heist action, a predominantly POV perspective. Immediately, you're hooked. But over the course of the film, McQueen slows the action beats right down. If you're expecting a zippy action caper รก la Ocean's 11, you will probably be disappointed. In place of quips and zingers, McQueen takes time to establish engaging, complex characters and explore some more mature themes. There's a focus on the ugly (and more realistic) side of crime - loss, grief and the fallout of your misdeeds.
This gambit would be bold enough on it's own, but as I said, McQueen doesn't hold back with the topics he's willing to cover. The backdrop of contemporary Chicago provides the perfect setting for insightful comments on political corruption, race issues, poverty. Some lines may feel slightly on the nose, but on the whole these issues are covered with respect and intelligence. One particular tracking shot is the most ingenious piece of visual storytelling that I have ever seen.
McQueen's deployment of this incredible cast must also be commended. It's very easy in large ensemble movies for certain actors or characters to disappear. Yet, of the embarrassment of riches available to him in the cast, McQueen ensures that each and every one of the characters makes a memorable and lasting impression. There are certain standouts of course. Viola Davis is tremendous in the lead role and will definitely be in the Oscar conversation. Each of the widows bring their A game, with Elizabeth Debicki particularly giving a gentle but vibrant performance. Daniel Kaluuya cements his place as one of the best young actors on the planet right now. His presence on screen is immense - so icy and intense - you're genuinely terrified every time he swaggers into frame.
I was massively impressed by Widows. I suspect that it might be a divisive film. There are a few twists you could easily take contention with and the huge amount of themes and ideas covered could be seen as over-stuffing. But there is an awful lot to enjoy. It's a very different kind of heist movie, but these are some very welcomed changes. An intelligent voice speaking out about crucial issues through some outstanding performances.
4/5 Stars
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