I love a Boston Crime Movie! So, of course, AppleTV+‘s The Instigators is right up my alley. The film follows Rory and Cobby, played by Matt Damon and Casey Affleck. Rory is a former Marine on the brink of despair. Cobby, a recently released ex-con, uses children to get past his motorcycle breathalyzer. In a desperate moment, the two join forces for a heist. This ragtag team, including Jack Harlow, is going to rob the mayor on election night. However, nothing goes as planned. So now, Rory and Cobby have to unite to evade the authorities, navigate bureaucratic obstacles, and escape the wrath of a vindictive crime lord.

The Instigators is an absolute blast and different from Boston Crime Dramas of the past. The hilarity kicks off from the very beginning and never holds back in a lighthearted comedy that wholeheartedly embraces the absurd.

Director Doug Liman skillfully highlights the action elements of this action-comedy, effectively drawing on his signature style. He delivers thrilling car chases and dynamic firearm sequences that echo his proven formula from previous action-packed films. At the same time, Rory and Cobby show they aren’t entirely out of touch; their street smarts keep them conscious of the fact that getting caught could spell trouble. While there are tense moments that raise the stakes, the film predominantly bursts with humor.

The Instigators GOES AGAINST EXPECTATIONS

Damon and Affleck continue to shine, displaying their comedic chemistry in roles that challenge expectations. In this delightful surprise, Cobby (Affleck) unleashes a stream of clever one-liners, while Rory (Damon) embodies the role of the straight man. One of the most pleasant surprises for me was Hong Chau’s outstanding portrayal of Dr. Donna Rivera, Rory’s psychiatrist.

When the two find themselves on the run from the authorities Cobby gets shot. So, Rory rushes him to Dr. Rivera for help in removing the bullet. However, after making a terrible decision to contact the authorities, she gets caught up in the ensuing chaos alongside the two terrible criminals. I was concerned that introducing yet another character into an already crowded cast would create complications, but Chau effortlessly strikes a perfect balance between providing comedic relief and serving as the straight man in the scenario.

The Instigators is now streaming on AppleTV+!

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